Madison, Wis. – The United States, Mexico and Canada reached an agreement earlier today, announcing the roll back of metal tariffs.
“FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative applauds the end of Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Mexico and Canada. We are eager to see Mexico respond by dropping their tariffs on U.S. dairy products and restore trade with our number one export market.
More than 20 years have been dedicated to increasing U.S. dairy export volumes to Mexico, building a strong trade relationship but also a valuable channel of safe, quality food products for Mexicans and their families to enjoy. For every $1 of U.S. dairy exports to Mexico, $2.50 is generated as economic activity in the U.S., according to Informa Economics. In response to Section 232, Mexico placed duties on U.S. dairy products as much as 25 percent, greatly impacting the trade relationship the U.S. and Mexico previously enjoyed.
This is a step in the right direction, especially as Congress considers USMCA. Dairy farmers are eager to see additional progress made on these trade agreements, including the passage of USMCA. Now that the tariffs are no longer in place, Congress can remove that political barrier and move forward with approving this trade agreement.
There is more work to be done outside of this trade agreement, especially as trade talks continue with countries like China. FarmFirst Dairy Cooperative will continue to ensure current and future trade agreements represent the best interests of U.S. dairy farmers.”
