Crossings of Mexican fresh produce through Nogales, Ariz., represent a huge economic effect on the city, the state of Arizona, and arguably the entire U.S.
According to trade statistics compiled by the University of Arizona, northbound crossings of fresh produce in 2020 totaled more than $3.4 billion.
In 2020, May and June were the top months for northbound produce crossings, with values totaling $471 million in May and $507 million on June. Other top months for crossings were January ($435 million), March ($411 million), February ($384 million) and December ($257 million).
For all of 2020, Nogales represented about 23% of all northbound produce crossing at southern U.S. border ports of entry, ranging from a low of 8% in September to 40% in June, according to statistics compiled by the University of Arizona.
By commodity, USDA annual statistics show tomatoes account for the biggest part of produce crossings through Nogales, accounting for about 19% of crossings, followed by watermelon (16%), cucumbers (14%), squash (13%), bell peppers (9%), grapes (6%), chili peppers (5%), mangoes (4%), honeydew (2%) and eggplant (2%).
New items are adding diversity to crossings in Nogales, according to the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas.
Commodities now being imported include figs, pomegranates, Brussels sprouts and lemons, according to the FPAA.
“Nogales has always been known for produce, from asparagus to zucchini,” FPAA president Lance Jungmeyer said in a news release. “The growth in further new items exemplifies the innovation in new variety development to meet consumer and retailer demands.”
