U.S. Senator Ruben Gallego has called on the Department of Commerce to reconsider its decision to terminate the 2019 Tomato Suspension Agreement (TSA), a move that would impose a 21% duty on Mexican tomato imports. In a letter addressed to Secretary Andrew Lutnick, Gallego highlighted the potential consequences of the decision, including increased food prices, threats to U.S. jobs, and strain on Arizona's border economy. The TSA has provided stable tomato prices for American consumers while supporting thousands of jobs tied to cross-border trade. He wrote the following letter, voicing his concerns:
"Dear Secretary Lutnick,
I write to express serious concern regarding the recent announcement of the Department's intent to withdraw from the 2019 Tomato Suspension Agreement (TSA), effective April 14, 2025. This decision would impose a 21% duty on imports of tomatoes from Mexico. I urge you to reconsider this action, which would significantly impact American families' ability to afford groceries during a time of high inflation.
For nearly 30 years, the TSA has ensured a fair market price for imported tomatoes while providing American consumers with affordable, year-round access to fresh produce. The agreement has been rigorously enforced by the Department of Commerce and the USDA through audits and reviews. As of April 2025, over 99.99% of tomato shipments from Mexico have complied with the TSA.
This agreement is critical for meeting growing U.S. demand, especially during winter months when domestic production is limited. Eliminating the TSA could lead to a 50% increase in tomato prices, reduce variety on store shelves, and jeopardize jobs throughout the supply chain.
Arizona's border communities are particularly vulnerable. The tomato trade supports approximately 33,000 U.S. jobs, including workers in transportation, logistics, retail, and food service sectors. A recent study by Arizona State University estimates that ending the agreement would reduce Arizona's economic activity by $3.4 billion, along with a $123.3 million drop in state tax revenue and a $15.8 million loss in county tax revenue.
While I fully support expanding U.S. agricultural production, we must acknowledge that domestic capacity cannot meet the year-round demand for certain tomato varieties. Imports from Mexico act as a critical stabilizer, especially in years when U.S. production is affected by climate-related events, such as Florida's $1.2 billion in crop losses in 2023.
Trade policy should prioritize domestic manufacturing, worker protections, and industry growth, not policies that raise food prices and disrupt critical trade flows. Terminating the TSA does not advance these goals.
I urge you to reverse this decision and maintain the Tomato Suspension Agreement for the benefit of American families, workers, and growers.
Sincerely,
United States Senator"
For more information:
Senator Ruben Gallego
Tel: +1 202 224 4521
www.gallego.senate.gov