Mexico is turning to the European Union and Latin America to offset any potential declines in U.S. pork imports.
Mexico recently announced a 20 percent tariff on U.S. pork shoulders and legs starting next month in response to steel and aluminum tariffs placed on Mexico by the Trump administration. Mexican officials told Politico the nation will allow 350,000 tons of pork from all countries to ensure “that its consumers do not face shortages.” Experts predict the quota will be quickly filled by the European Union and Latin America. U.S. pork will still be able to compete under the quota but is expected to see a sharp loss in sales from the Mexican tariffs. The United States sent 25 percent of its total pork exports to Mexico last year.
Meanwhile EU Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan said “if Trump does not want to do business, the EU is ready and willing.”
From the National Association of Farm Broadcasting News Service.