The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Commerce are taking action after hearings in August that found a possible threat to domestic producers of seasonal fruits and vegetables from Mexican imports. According to a Sept. 1 news release,^[1] more than 60 witnesses testified to the threat of cheap imports, especially following the implementation of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement^[2] in July.

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has pledged to investigate the situation, pursue government-to-government talks and, if necessary, initiate an expedited Section 201 global safeguard investigation.^[3]

‘President Trump recognizes the challenges faced by American farmers and is committed to promoting and securing fair trade and a level playing field for all American producers. Secretary Perdue, Secretary Ross, and I are fully engaged in this effort. We would like to thank all of the elected officials, agricultural leaders, and dozens of farmers who participated in these hearings and helped make this plan a priority,’ said U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer.