The US Department of Commerce initiated a process for the presentation of comments from the parties involved to put an end to the dumping investigation against Mexican tomatoes, which began in 1996, but was suspended because of an agreement between producers from both nations.
If the investigation comes to an end, Florida producers may open a new one in just 24 hours, which is why Mexican authorities will try to reach an agreement by other means "without contaminating the bilateral relationship," explained a Mexican representative in the United States.
The agreement to suspend the investigation on the possible dumping of fresh Mexican tomatoes establishes a minimum price for national exporters, and in case it gets cancelled, new tariffs would apply.
The US government has received opposition letters from producers and Mexican civil servants, as well as from US importers and various members of Congress.
On 14 August, the Federal Register published the "announcement of an examination due to changes in the circumstances and a consideration for the termination of the suspended investigation" as regards fresh Mexican tomatoes.
Mexican producers say the electoral situation in the US is used as an excuse to try to start a commercial war, which not only affects Mexicans but also US consumers, who must pay higher prices due to lower supplies.
Author: Ernesto Perea