The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas recently hosted Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs at its Nogales, Ariz., headquarters for a roundtable discussion.
The visit, which included a panel with produce industry leaders, spotlighted topics such as the effort to preserve the 2019 Tomato Suspension Agreement, port of entry challenges, staffing issues and area infrastructure needs, according to a news release.
Hobbs opened by emphasizing the importance of the produce industry and international trade, according to the release. Arizona Department of Agriculture CEO Paul Brierley from the (ADA) pointed out Nogales’ pivotal role for the industry.
The discussions highlighted Hobbs’ commitment to supporting the Tomato Suspension Agreement and addressing local challenges that would harm Arizona businesses if the agreement were terminated, according to the release.
“Governor Hobbs truly understands the value that Arizona’s tomato distributors bring to the state, and the companies and their employees have told me how much they appreciate that,” FPAA President Lance Jungmeyer said in the release. “The industry brings in over $1 billion in economic value to the state.”
Hobbs toured the Divine Flavor warehouse, led by Chief Operating Officer and General Manager Jose Antonio Martinez. The visit shed light on important aspects of produce logistics, including quality inspections conducted in coordination with the Arizona Department of Agriculture and the USDA, the release said.
The state ag department highlighted its cooperative efforts with the industry in ensuring efficient inspections at local warehouses, the release said.
The visit ended in a stakeholder roundtable at the DeConcini Port of Entry, addressing issues such as resources for humane migrant services, port modernization, customs staffing and funding for transportation infrastructure, the release said.
FPAA said the visit marked a significant step toward collaborative efforts between it and the governor’s administration, aiming to strengthen the produce industry, spur economic development and build a resilient community.
