Washington Potato Commission continues push to resolve trucking dispute with Mexico

Farm and Ranch April 24, 2009 The Washington Potato Commission continues to work hard to get a quick resolution of that pilot trucking program dispute with Mexico that led to the imposition by Mexico of 20 percent tariffs on U.S. frozen processed potato imports. The Commission's Director of Trade Matt Harris says about half of the 83 million dollars in frozen product trade with Mexico last year was generated in Washington. Harris: "We are still communicating with Congressional delegation members about this issue. In fact we will be meeting with Congressman Doc Hastings within a short time period to give him an update and hopefully get some insight from the Congressman what his colleagues positions are on the issue and how much support we can garner within Congress to resolve this issue." The industry is also working with Congressman Ric Larsen in the House for a bipartisan approach. And it may take Congressional action. Harris just learned that although the Obama administration has the authority to reach a resolution, it wants a legislative solution. That could take time. Without and end to the tariff the U.S. will likely lose market share to Canada, which ultimately could lead to the loss of grower contracts from processors. Ironically, a group of French fry buyers from Central and South America, including Mexico, is visiting Washington. That's the Northwest Farm and Ranch Report. Brought to you in part by the Washington State Potato Commission. Nutrition today! Good health tomorrow! I'm Bob Hoff on the Northwest Ag Information Network.