Dutch tomatoes

The Dutch export trade has welcomed the recent announcement that the US authorities is to remove fresh tomatoes, as well as shallots and certain other types of onions, carrots and chicory, from its so-called ‘retaliation list’ of European imports.

As of 23 March 2009, following a decade-long trade spat with the European Union over the latter’s ban on hormone-treated beef, the US has decided to amend the list, which details items that are subject to 100 per cent import duties in connection with the long-running dispute.

Dutch export association Frugi Venta confirmed that, along with the Dutch Produce Association, it had enlisted the help of legal representatives in the US to defend its trade interests.