US imposes 17% tariff on Mexican tomatoes, sparking price concerns
However, US businesses that grow tomatoes in Mexico or rely on imports warned that the new duty could drive up grocery bills and disrupt supply chains.In a letter sent last week to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, the Chamber of Commerce and 30 other business groups said US companies employ 50,000 workers and generate $8.3 billion in economic benefits moving tomatoes from Mexico into communities across the country.'We are concerned that withdrawing from the agreement – at a time when the business community is already navigating significant trade uncertainty – could lead to retaliatory actions by our trading partners against other commodities and crops that could create further hardship for U.S. businesses and consumers,' the letter said.Economists say the impact on consumers will be felt quickly. 'Retail prices for tomatoes in the US will likely rise around 8.5% with a 17% duty,' predicted Tim Richards, agribusiness professor at Arizona State University.The new tariff is separate from the broader 30% base tariff on products from Mexico and the European Union that President Donald Trump announced Saturday as part of his wider trade reset agenda.- EndsInputs from Associated PressTune InMust Watch
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NDTV
an hour ago
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