The trade association says easing tariffs on Brazilian products will help ensure year-round access to nutritious foods and maintain affordability of high-quality fresh produce for US consumers
The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) has issued a statement after US president Donald Trump eliminated tariffs on a range of Brazilian agricultural imports, including tropical fruits.
The updated exemptions mirror the order on 14 November that removed so-called reciprocal tariffs on more than 200 goods worldwide.
“IFPA welcomes the administration’s decision to ease tariffs on Brazilian agricultural products,” the association stated.
”Brazil is a key global supplier of fruits and other agricultural inputs that complement US production.
”Easing tariffs on these products – especially those that support year-round access to nutritious foods – is an important step toward ensuring they can enter the US market without excessive duties,” it said.
”This action will help maintain the affordability of high-quality fresh produce for American consumers.
”IFPA has consistently advocated for the removal of tariffs and non-tariff barriers that are unscientific or not risk-based on fresh produce,” the association continued.
”Because of the geographic nature of certain commodities, consumers and growers both benefit from fair trade in fresh produce and floral products.
”We will continue to make the case for similar exemptions extended to floral products,” it confirmed.
At the same time, IFPA echoed its call to the administration and Congress to pair targeted tariff relief with policies that keep US growers competitive – particularly around labour and production costs.
A balanced approach is ”essential” to ensuring consumers can enjoy a reliable, high-quality supply of fresh produce and floral products year-round, it noted.
“IFPA looks forward to continuing our work 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.”
