Despite the fact that the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, and the President of the United States, Donald Trump, reached an agreement to pause tariffs between both countries for a month, the National Agricultural Council (CNA) warned about possible consequences. The CNA revealed that several food products will be affected by the 25% tax that may still come into effect after the pause. This will lead to an increase in prices for consumers. Mexico exports approximately 80% of its products to the U.S., so an increase in tariffs could impact the prices of these products in both countries, affecting both consumers and Mexican producers.
The CNA called for building bridges with all necessary stakeholders to avoid unnecessary costs for Mexico, the United States, and Canada, and to ensure that the Treaty between Mexico, the United States, and Canada (USMCA) continues to be a model of prosperity and development for the region and the world.
"It assured that the organization is committed to maintaining the stability of agro-food trade between Mexico, the United States, and Canada, always seeking mutual benefit and cooperation," emphasized the CNA. According to them, the Mexican agro-food sector has been key to food security and economic stability in the North American region, consolidating North America as one of the most prosperous and competitive areas globally. According to CNA data, the new tariffs impact over $475 billion in Mexican exports to the U.S., representing approximately 80% of Mexico's total exports.
Among the most vulnerable products are fruits and vegetables, as more than 50% of U.S. consumption of products like avocados, tomatoes, peppers, and berries comes from Mexico. Additionally, the meat sector will be affected, as Mexico exports over $1.5 billion in beef and pork to the United States. Other affected industries could be beverages, especially beer and tequila, products that account for over $8 billion in exports, with the United States being the main destination for these products.
One day before the tariff pause was officially announced, the CNA expressed its support for the Mexican government and reiterated its commitment to defending national interests.
