On May 13, 2019, the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) published in the Federal Register notice of intent to withdraw from the 2013 Suspension Agreement on Fresh Tomatoes from Mexico. DOC’s action has resulted in a tariff of 17.56% being imposed on such fresh tomatoes. The tariffs on tomatoes are now in effect. Mexico is the largest exporter of tomatoes to the U.S. The DOC notes it is continuing to negotiate with Mexico, although it is unclear if any deal will be reached anytime soon.
On May 9, 2019, the President ordered additional duties on a wide range of food products from China to be increased from 10% to 25%. The additional duties went into effect on May 10. The increased duties also impact other items such as racks/shelving, fountain soda dispensers, grocery bags and deli slicers.
Please see this regulatory alert for additional details on the tariffs.