NatureSweet calls for negotiation of new tomato trade agreement

SAN ANTONIO, TX — July 21, 2025 — NatureSweet BB #:152351, the leading branded tomato company in North America, is sounding the alarm on the U.S. government’s decision to terminate the longstanding Tomato Suspension Agreement (TSA)—a move that threatens to upend the fresh tomato supply chain, severely reduce availability, and put food safety at risk for American consumers.

Nearly 70% of the fresh tomatoes consumed in the U.S. are imported from Mexico, especially during the winter months when domestic production is limited. The sudden imposition of duties will create serious disruptions in supply, particularly for key varieties like grape and cherry tomatoes, which are largely grown in Mexico. This decision will lead to fewer options, less availability, and higher prices in the produce aisle for both consumers and retailers.

“As a vertically integrated greenhouse grower, NatureSweet manages every step of the process—from growing and harvesting to packaging and distribution—which gives us the ability to absorb some of the cost shocks and all of the additional administrative burden,” said Rodolfo Spielmann, President and CEO of NatureSweet. “But we operate in a thin-margin industry in which our model is unique, and most growers and distributors are separate. Many smaller growers might not have this flexibility, and this new burden will push some to the brink.”

The ripple effects of these pressures are more than just economics. Food safety and product quality are also at risk as reduced supply may force less-resourced growers to cut corners or leave the market entirely. Increased reliance on open-field operations, which are harder to monitor and more vulnerable to contamination could further elevate food safety risks.

For nearly 30 years, the TSA has provided a framework that protects Florida growers while supporting a diverse and resilient tomato market across North America. NatureSweet urges all stakeholders to return to the table and negotiate a new agreement that preserves consumer access to safe, high-quality, and affordable tomatoes.

“Our tomatoes are grown year-round in greenhouses and ripened naturally on the vine—unlike many field-grown Florida tomatoes, which are picked green and artificially ripened with gas,” said Skip Hulett, Chief Legal Officer of NatureSweet. “That’s why we’re the #1 branded tomato in the U.S. Consumers trust us for consistent flavor, quality, safety, and integrity —and we’re committed to maintaining those standards.”

NatureSweet will continue to do everything possible to minimize price impacts and safeguard quality, but the company is calling for a collaborative, long-term solution that benefits growers, retailers, and consumers alike.

Hulett adds “Let’s not turn a trade dispute into a food crisis. Let’s fix this—before the damage becomes permanent.”

About NatureSweet (NS Brands, Ltd.)
NatureSweet is the leading brand in snacking tomatoes and a trusted provider for greenhouse-grown vegetables. As the largest vertically integrated controlled environment agriculture company and greenhouse grower in North America, it operates on more than 1,500 acres of greenhouse space, growing premium tomatoes, cucumbers, and sweet peppers. The company’s team of nearly 10,000 associates ensures every product is handpicked at peak freshness, delivering exceptional quality and flavor to supermarkets across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Its mission is to transform the lives of agricultural workers in North America through a profitable business model that encourages other companies to replicate it. With a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, NatureSweet has earned B Corp, Fair Trade, and Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) certifications.

Contact:
Jenny Halpin
Sr. Corporate Manager, External Comms
jennyh@naturesweet.com
210-885-8927