Bonus Episode: The Tomato Suspension Agreement

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Summary

In the world of international trade, agreements and negotiations play a crucial role in fostering cooperation and resolving disputes between nations. One such agreement that has been making headlines recently is the Tomato Suspension Agreement, a delicate and intricate pact between the United States and Mexico concerning the trade of tomatoes. 

The agreement, which has been in place since 1996, has allowed for stability, innovation, and the availability of high-quality tomatoes year-round. Terminating the agreement could lead to a significant increase in tomato prices, limited availability, and negative economic consequences for both the US and Mexico. Over 450 companies and organizations have signed a letter urging the Department of Commerce to maintain the agreement. The conversation emphasizes the importance of consumer access to affordable and nutritious produce.

Takeaways

  • The tomato suspension agreement has been crucial for ensuring stability, innovation, and availability of high-quality tomatoes year-round.
  • Terminating the agreement could lead to a significant increase in tomato prices and limited availability, negatively impacting consumers and businesses.
  • Over 450 companies and organizations have signed a letter urging the Department of Commerce to maintain the agreement.
  • The agreement supports the growth of the tomato industry in both the US and Mexico, benefiting consumers, communities, and job creation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Conversation

01:00 Importance of the Tomato Suspension Agreement

04:16 Introductions of Guests and Their Organizations

07:37 History and Expansion of Tomato Varieties

09:04 Comparison of Tomato Growing Methods

12:29 Impact of Tomato Trade Agreement on Arizona and Texas

13:15 Personal Experience with Field-Grown Tomatoes

15:30 Introduction of Nature Suite and its Purpose

17:00 Potential Consequences of Terminating the Trade Agreement

19:24 Dumping and Economic Impact

23:21 Current State of the Trade Agreement

28:54 Advocacy and Support for the Trade Agreement

35:43 Importance of Consumer Perspective and Closing Remarks

Resources

Website: 

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/NatureSweet/

https://www.facebook.com/FreshProduceAA/

https://www.facebook.com/TexIPA.org/

Instagram: 

https://www.instagram.com/nstomatoes/

https://www.instagram.com/texasproduce/

About Lori

Lori Taylor is the Founder & CEO of The Produce Moms. For ten years she sold fresh produce to over 300 grocery stores throughout the United States, and today she is fully focused on working with the produce supply chain, media, and government to increase fresh produce access & consumption in the US and around the globe. Connect with Lori on LinkedIn.

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