Do Trade Relations with other Countries really affect Food Prices here in the U.S.?

Photo by Elaine Casap on Unsplash

Trade discussions have been on or near the center stage of the national discussion lately in the news.  The escalating trade war with China is on the minds of the top policy advisors not to mention the economists who are interested in stabilizing economies throughout the world.  Another trade discussion which has drawn attention but not put on center stage are the trade talks between the U.S. and Mexico.  Below is an excerpt to drive home the point of how such trade discussions will have a direct impact on the food/produce that each of us purchase in our stores.



A recent newsletter from 'Politico Agriculture' points out that the price of tomatoes stand to increase by as much as 40% if a deal is not reached soon:

HIGHER PRICES IF U.S. ENDS TOMATO DEAL WITH MEXICO: American consumers could soon see tomato prices increase by at least 40 percent should the U.S. slap new duties on tomato imports from Mexico, according to a report by Arizona State University.

It estimates prices could rise from $2.87 to $4.21 per pound for certain tomatoes starting next month, when the Commerce Department intends to terminate a 23-year-old agreement with Mexico and reopen an anti-dumping investigation. The study was commissioned by the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas, whose members are involved in production, sales and transportation of fresh fruits and vegetables grown in Mexico. More here from POLITICO's Oma Seddiq.

Each of us should be wary of such 'discussions' which are having a direct impact on our food prices -- and supply.  The next time that you find yourself shopping, take a look at the prices and see if any change for the worse over time due to limited supply.  These talks are supposedly getting the U.S. into a better trade deal for our side, but with rising food costs, I fail to see the benefit for the consumers of the United States.



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