High-tech greenhouse growers in Florida and across the U.S. are closely monitoring the impacts of trade policies under the Trump administration. Florida, a key player in the citrus sector, produced approximately 20.2 million boxes of citrus during the 2023–24 season. Oranges dominated production at 89%, with grapefruit at 9%, and tangerines and tangelos at 2%.
Export data indicates that Florida shipped 395,000 cartons of fresh fruit, with grapefruit primarily going to Belgium and the EU, while Canada received most oranges and tangerines. Additionally, 1.75 million gallons of frozen concentrated orange juice were exported to Europe and Canada.
Florida's agricultural exports, including sugar, are documented in reports by the Florida Department of Agriculture and SelectFlorida. In 2023, Florida-origin exports totaled $69 billion, with Canada, Brazil, and Mexico as key markets. For detailed sugar export data, consulting Florida's agricultural export reports is advisable.
Tariffs are central to Trump's economic strategy, aiming to reduce trade deficits and boost U.S. manufacturing. However, economists warn that consumers might face higher prices due to these tariffs. During Trump's first term, retaliatory tariffs led to a $23 billion bailout for affected farmers, addressing the economic impact of the trade war with countries like Canada and China.
While tariffs were designed to protect domestic industries and generate revenue, they also resulted in higher costs, reduced imports, and retaliatory measures from other nations. These dynamics contributed to a projected GDP decline of up to 1%. Some industries experienced temporary benefits, but others faced challenges, creating economic uncertainty and affecting international trade relations.
Source: NewsTalk Florida
