Mexico economy minister warns US farm trade curbs could trigger broader retaliation
SPY•Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard warned that US restrictions on Mexican farm exports could lead to more duties on both sides and higher prices for US consumers. Mexico is also seeking relief from US tariffs on autos, steel and aluminum.
1. Warning over farm trade
Ebrard called anti-dumping duties and other curbs on US-Mexico farm trade a “bad idea,” saying the US duty on Mexican tomatoes cut Mexican exports while Canadian and Guatemalan shipments grew instead of Florida producers’ sales. He said a US case involving Mexican strawberries would likely have a similar effect and raise prices for US consumers.
2. Risk of more duties
Mexico has anti-dumping investigations into US pork and chicken. Ebrard warned that if both countries continue imposing trade measures, they could end up levying more duties on each other; Mexico is also seeking relief from US tariffs on autos, steel and aluminum.
