Tariff Aid for NW Cherry Growers

Tariff Aid for NW Cherry Growers

Bob Larson
Bob Larson
With today's Fruit Grower Report, I'm Bob Larson. Relief is on the way for many Northwest cherry growers after a provision made its way through the House of Representatives that will increase access to aid for growers hurt by retaliatory tariffs by China.

Senator Maria Cantwell and Representative Dan Newhouse pushed the measure that passed in the House by a 354-to-58 vote. The provision passed the Senate late last month.

Newhouse says this is great news and comes with perfect timing for the cherry growing community ...

NEWHOUSE ... "Well, I think so. Cherry harvest was just getting underway a year ago when the tariff issue became real with China. It certainly impacted, that one certainly impacted their markets and will continue to this year so with a lot of help from lots of people we were able to make sure that they are included in the support that's being offered through USDA. So, I think that that's a really important step particularly as we're just days away from beginning 2019's cherry harvest."

When I spoke with him last week, he said the final step is the President's signature...

NEWHOUSE ... "Well, as soon as he gets back from his trip to Europe. I believe he's on beaches of Normandy this morning and when he gets back, it's on his desk waiting for him. So, yes, that will happen soon."

Newhouse says cherry growers deserve the same aid available to other producers, adding this fix is essential to ensure they can still operate in this upcoming growing season while the Administration continues their work to level the playing field with China.

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