During a recent winter tomato season characterized by poor weather, very limited shipments, and record pricing of $40-plus per carton, Florida's tomato sector says that "U.S. growers' prices are being suppressed."
In a submission to the U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce) on Feb. 29, 2024, the Florida Tomato Exchange (FTE) reiterated its request to terminate the Tomato Suspension Agreement, which has governed tomato imports from Mexico for over 25 years.
The FTE sent Commerce a chart on the heels of some shippers (including FTE members) having issued "Act of God" letters stating that supply was so limited and prices were so high they would not be able to meet their commitments.
FTE also suggested to Commerce that during the recent winter vegetable season, "Mexican tomato imports are rising, and U.S. growers' prices are being suppressed."
Crossings data for 25-pound Roma cartons.
According to leading tomato industry stakeholders, the FTE submission focused on a single pack type for only one (Roma) out of several tomato types covered by the Tomato Suspension Agreement, and its analysis failed to acknowledge the market impacts of weather in all major growing areas, and the historical context in the Roma market specifically.
The stakeholders said the FTE failed to acknowledge the unprecedented tomato market pricing during the 2023-2024 season when tomato prices were at times $30-40 a box--above the minimum price of $8.30 that is required by the Tomato Suspension Agreement.
The Fresh Produce Association of the Americas, NatureSweet, Mastronardi, Texas International Produce Association, and the Mexican Tomato Growers Associations all submitted rebuttal comments to the recent FTE submission.
For more information:
Lance Jungmeyer
Fresh Produce Association of the Americas
lance@freshfrommexico.com
Allison Moore
Fresh Produce Association of the Americas
amoore@freshfrommexico.com
www.freshfrommexico.com