U.S. investigates Mexican strawberry imports for alleged dumping

The U.S. Department of Commerce has issued a preliminary determination regarding alleged dumping practices by Mexican strawberry producers. The investigation, prompted by a petition from the Florida-based coalition Strawberry Growers for Fair Trade, suggests that Mexican winter strawberries are being sold in the U.S. at unfairly low prices.

As a preliminary measure, the U.S. has announced compensatory duties ranging from 3.37% to 5.28% on Mexican winter strawberry imports. This decision could significantly impact Mexican agricultural regions, particularly in Guanajuato, where municipalities like Irapuato and Jerécuaro rely heavily on these exports. Last year, Mexico accounted for 98% of U.S. strawberry imports, valued at over $1 billion.

The Mexican government has expressed “grave concern,” arguing that the U.S. decision is arbitrary. Mexico contends that the investigation improperly differentiates between “winter strawberries” and general strawberries and incorrectly treats certain eastern U.S. states as a separate regional market rather than a single national market. A final decision on the matter is expected by January 8, 2027.