The Produce Coalition for USMCA has announced its official launch to advocate for continued consumer access to affordable fresh produce and tariff-free trade of all agricultural products under USMCA. In a statement released June 9, the group said:
"Our organization represents a broad alliance of produce companies that grow, pack, ship, distribute, and sell fresh produce in the United States. The Produce Coalition for USMCA is committed to highlighting the critical role of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) in maintaining food security and affordable grocery prices for consumers. We support an integrated North American produce supply chain that ensures a reliable, year-round supply of healthy, affordable, fresh fruits and vegetables for American consumers. By fostering seamless cross-border trade and collaboration, the USMCA helps keep grocery shelves stocked, supports agricultural jobs, and contributes to a safer, stronger, and more prosperous America."
As the USMCA Parties continue their required six-year joint review, the Coalition will be working to highlight the importance of the agreement to U.S. agriculture and consumers. Under USMCA, an integrated North American supply chain ensures that the industry can provide a year-round, affordable supply of highly perishable goods to households in all 50 states.
Tariff reductions that took place in NAFTA and USMCA lowered food prices enough to save the average household roughly $700 per year on grocery prices, according to a recent study by Purdue University. These findings clearly show the importance of maintaining the current market access under USMCA.
In addition to making fresh produce more affordable for Americans, the robust structure of the agreement is also essential for advancing science-based decision-making and addressing any trade disputes before they become trade barriers, all of which contribute to U.S. food security.
Source : The Grower