Trade association says exemptions for products not grown at scale year-round will maintain affordability of high-quality fresh produce and avoid placing unnecessary burden on families
Following the Trump administration’s announcement of new tariff exemptions for a range of goods not produced domestically in sufficient quantities, the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) issued a statement backing the move.
“We welcome the Trump administration’s recognition that supporting a healthier America requires keeping fruits and vegetables affordable and available,” IFPA said.
”Today’s announcement acknowledges that easing cost pressures on items not grown domestically in sufficient supply is essential to maintaining the affordability of high-quality fresh produce products.
IFPA emphasised that it had “for years” emphasised that tariffs on products not produced at scale year-round could place an avoidable burden on families, limit healthy choices, and disrupt the marketplace.
”We have consistently advocated for the removal of tariffs and non-tariff barriers that are unscientific or not risk-based on fresh produce,” the association outlined.
”Because of the seasonal and geographic nature of certain commodities, consumers and growers both benefit from fair trade in fresh produce and floral products.
“With that rationale, we will continue to make the case for similar exemptions extended to floral products.”
It urged the Trump administration and Congress to pursue policies to keep US growers competitive, particularly production-related costs and labour pressures.
This will, it said, ensure consumers can obtain the nutritious foods and floral products that enrich their health, well-being, and daily lives year-round.
“IFPA looks forward to working proactively with the Trump administration and leaders around the world on trade policies that ensure the full produce supply chain is empowered to bring consumers a consistent, reliable supply of fresh produce and floral products,” IFPA noted.
Today’s announcement follows IFPA’s longstanding advocacy for targeted tariff relief.
In March, IFPA sent a letter to administration officials urging exemptions for produce and floral products to safeguard the availability of affordable, nutritious food – an effort the association has continued to advance throughout the year.
