Department of Commerce terminates tomato suspension agreement

The U.S. Department of Commerce officially terminated the 2019 Agreement Suspending the Antidumping Duty Investigation on Fresh Tomatoes from Mexico on July 14.

On April 14, 2025, the department gave 90 days’ notice of its intent to withdraw and confirmed that today, rescinding the administrative review and issuing an antidumping duty on fresh tomatoes imported from Mexico.

The department’s International Trade Administration has details on the agreement here.

A 17 percent antidumping duty is imposed on tomatoes imported from Mexico.

Robert Guenther, executive vice president of the Florida Tomato Exchange BB #:162441 released this statement July 14:

“Today’s decision is an enormous victory for American tomato farmers and American agriculture. We’re grateful for the decisive, bold, and crucial action taken by the Trump administration to terminate the U.S.-Mexico Tomato Suspension Agreement.

“This decision will protect hardworking American tomato growers from unfair Mexican trading practices and send a strong signal that the Trump Administration is committed to ensuring fair markets for American agriculture. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick recognized that five previous agreements with Mexico had failed and that strong enforcement of U.S. trade laws is needed to protect the stability of our food supply chain.

“By standing up for American agriculture, the Trump administration has defended the rule of law and prioritized fairness in trade. This action ensures that American consumers will have more choices and higher-quality products, while strengthening America’s food system against future disruptions. We commend Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick for his clear-eyed assessment and courageous action in finally terminating this flawed and ineffective agreement.”

The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association BB #:153753 issued the following statement:

“Today marks a significant victory for growers across the U.S. The termination of the 2019 Tomato Suspension Agreement by the Administration signals a positive movement toward fairer competition, not only for tomato growers but for all specialty crop producers nationwide. For too long, unfair Mexican tomato imports have been dumped into the U.S. market, injuring the U.S. industry.

“This action demonstrates that U.S. trade laws can protect American farmers and ensures that U.S. consumers have access to locally grown fruits and vegetables. We are grateful to Commerce Secretary Lutnick and President Trump for listening to growers and leveling the playing field. And for the relentless advocacy of the Florida Congressional Delegation. The future of the industry is stronger without the undue pressures of unfair foreign trade.”

A number of U.S. business groups joined the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in a July 11, 2025 letter to Secretary Lutnick urging a pause to the plan to withdraw from the 2019 Agreement Suspending the Antidumping Investigation on Fresh Tomatoes from Mexico. 

The group said, “Terminating the agreement would likely have widespread repercussions on the U.S. economy, affecting agriculture, warehousing, logistics, grocery, and restaurant industries.” 

Editor’s note: This story was updated July 15, 2025.