WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American Bakers Association opposes the agreement made between the U.S. and Mexican governments to manage sugar imports. “Any further controls placed on sugar supplies are not good for bakers or all other sugar users,” said Robb MacKie, ABA President and CEO. “Apparently an 85 percent monopoly in the U.S. sugar market is not enough for domestic sugar producers. Their motives are simple – to create a 100 percent monopoly on sugar supplies in the U.S. It is a shame the federal government is such an enabler of this grab."
“These restrictions will cost sugar users billions over the coming years,” said Cory Martin, ABA Director of Government Relations. “The suspension agreement curiously follows the flawed import policies prescribed by the sugar program, strictly controlling Mexico’s ability to fulfill U.S. sugar demand, especially in the early months of the sugar marketing year. This leaves bakers, food manufacturers and consumers to face potential shortages for decades to come. It’s a lose/lose situation for everyone except big sugar.”
“The good news is that with a new Congress starting next year, the chances for reforming the current sugar program only increase,” added Martin. “It’s only a matter of time before Congress sees through the sham that is current U.S. sugar policy.”
About the American Bakers Association:
The American Bakers Association (ABA) is the Washington D.C.-based voice of the wholesale baking industry. Since 1897, ABA has represented the interests of bakers before the U.S. Congress, federal agencies, and international regulatory authorities. ABA advocates on behalf of more than 700 baking facilities and baking company suppliers. ABA members produce bread, rolls, crackers, bagels, sweet goods, tortillas and many other wholesome, nutritious, baked products for America’s families. The baking industry generates more than $102 billion in economic activity annually and employs more than 706,000 highly skilled people.
Source: American Bakers Association
