Washington's raspberry sector is under strain as growers and processors contend with low-cost imports from Mexico, volatile markets, and rising production costs, according to the Washington Red Raspberry Commission (WRRC).
The WRRC recently filed comments with the U.S. Trade Representative, urging that raspberry imports be addressed during upcoming U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement discussions. "For Washington's berry growers, volatile markets and an influx of low-cost imported fruit, coupled with escalating production expenses, are making it increasingly difficult to remain competitive," the letter stated.
Imports of Mexican raspberries, largely a byproduct of the Mexican fresh market, are entering the U.S. during the domestic harvest, putting pressure on local prices. "Mexican producers benefit from substantially lower labor costs, often a fraction of U.S. wage rates, as well as reduced regulatory and environmental compliance expenses," the commission noted. The WRRC expressed support for tariffs or other trade measures to address the imbalance, warning that previously reliable customers have shifted toward lower-cost Mexican fruit.
Meanwhile, the 2025 growing season in Washington has been marked by favorable conditions, and a new raspberry variety, Kulshan, is showing production potential. However, industry representatives are concerned about the ability to absorb current fruit volumes in the domestic market. Eastern Europe's lighter harvest may improve export prospects, and early indications suggest prices have improved slightly from 2024.
The WRRC also recently submitted comments to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the USDA regarding proposed definitions for ultra-processed foods. The commission raised concerns that frozen fruit could be mistakenly classified as ultra-processed, noting that "physical processing steps do not automatically classify foods as ultra-processed, especially if there are no added ingredients." It is recommended that any definition consider nutrient content and overall health benefits.
New WRRC Executive Director Willis, who succeeded long-time leader Henry Bierlink earlier this year, said increasing domestic consumption of Washington red raspberries remains a key goal. Bierlink, who led the commission for 25 years, continues to serve in an advisory role.
The commission has opened its 2026 research funding call, with a December 12 deadline for submissions. Research priorities include mite management, labor-saving practices, cultivar development, spotted wing drosophila control, and disease management for cane botrytis, spur blight, yellow rust, cane blight, and powdery mildew. In 2025, the WRRC funded 15 projects totaling about US$280,000.
The WRRC's annual meeting will take place on December 3 during the Small Fruit Conference and Lynden Ag Show in Lynden, Washington, where the commission will review the 2025 season and outline plans for the year ahead.
Source: Capital Press
