More than a dozen representatives of the fresh fruit and vegetable sector in North America sent a letter addressed to U.S. President Donald Trump, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to push for a swift end to ongoing tariff disputes, citing severe consequences to growers, exporters, retailers and consumers.
The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA), the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) and the other co-signers say these tariffs threaten the affordability, accessibility and stability of fresh produce supplies across the continent.
“The fresh produce supply chain is one of the most deeply integrated in the world, with cross-border trade between our nations ensuring year-round access to healthy fruits and vegetables,” says Cathy Burns, IFPA CEO. “Consistent access to safe, nutritious produce is essential to addressing chronic health challenges. Tariffs on these vital goods disrupt that balance — driving up grocery costs, reducing availability and placing significant strain on the businesses that grow, ship, and deliver our food.”
In 2024, Canada imported nearly $5.5 billion in fresh produce from the U.S. and $3 billion from Mexico. The U.S. imported over 24 billion pounds of fresh produce from Mexico — valued at $19.6 billion — and exported more than $1.7 billion into Mexico. The organizations say these figures illustrate the tight-knit and mutually beneficial trade relationships that have long supported regional food security and public health.
“The stability of the North American fresh produce market is paramount. Canada’s industry is inextricably linked with our trading partners; any disruption directly impacts our growers, supply chains, and ultimately, consumer access and affordability,” says Ron Lemaire, CPMA president. “We stand with our domestic and global colleagues in demanding that leaders prioritize swift and collaborative resolution to safeguard the continental supply of fresh produce.”
The associations say in the letter that each country has a right to address unfair trade practices, but the associations caution that tariffs on perishable goods cause immediate and disproportionate harm to the supply chain. The organizations urge leaders to pursue a collaborative, long-term trade agreement that brings stability and predictability to the marketplace.
“Our organizations remain committed to supporting fair and open trade,” Burns and Lemaire said jointly in a news release. “We stand ready to work with all three governments to reach a solution that protects consumers, ensures food security, and strengthens the agricultural economies of North America.”
