A Market Dynamics Shift for Tomatoes

The U.S. Department of Commerce plans to withdraw from the 2019 Agreement suspending the antidumping investigation on fresh tomatoes from Mexico. Termination takes effect in 90 days, with a 20.91% duty on most tomato imports starting July 14, 2025.

The move follows concerns from U.S. growers who say the agreement failed to prevent unfair pricing. Commerce says this action will help restore fair competition.

Tomatoes are grown commercially in many U.S. states, but Florida and California are by far the largest producers. Still, growers have faced increasing pressure. Since 2000, U.S. fresh tomato import volumes have jumped by 176%, according to USDA data.

Commerce emphasizes that enforcing trade laws is a top priority and that antidumping duties provide relief from unfair pricing practices.

For California tomato growers, this may signal a major shift in market dynamics.