Trade tensions and rising tariffs took a big bite out of American apple exports in 2018, reducing the value from $1.1 billion in 2017 to $854 million in 2018.Growers are looking to Mexico and Canada to find a home for their 2019 crop.
Perspectives on food safety differ in Europe compared to the United States. Shifting trends may inspire farmers to grow more protected crops rather than open field vegetables. Hydroponic lettuce is a case in point.
Worsening trade relationships result in tariffs moving from 50 to 80 per cent on American apples destined for the subcontinent. Red Delicious apples are hardest hit.
The produce industry is relieved that threats have been cancelled to impose five per cent tariffs on Mexican goods crossing into the U.S. on June 10. The Border Trade Alliance offers some context.
Inclement weather, food recalls and widening trade gaps contributed to a 19-year low in the production of fresh vegetables in the U.S. in 2018. Onions, head lettuce, romaine lettuce and tomatoes accounted for much of the decline.
