Some Alabama farmers are celebrating President Donald Trump's decision to end the U.S.-Mexico Tomato Suspension Agreement and slap a 17% tariff on most fresh Mexican tomatoes.
"The termination of this deal is long overdue and gives our family farms a real chance to thrive again," said Alabama Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) executive director Blake Thaxton. "Our growers are committed to producing Sweet Grown Alabama tomatoes for our communities — and now they can do so on an even playing field."
Famed tomato-growing farm on Chandler Mountain in St. Clair County, Smith Tomato, has already seen the benefits of the changes.
Many buyers have already contacted us and other nearby farms for interest in future business," said Chad Smith, farm owner and AFVGA board member. "This tariff is a lifesaver to many farmers who have much higher costs and restrictions than our neighboring countries. We all have implemented the best agricultural practices and safest methods of growing tomatoes and have invested to only be undercut and pushed out of business by foreign tomatoes."
Smith said he hopes the changes will also inspire young people to start their own farms, allowing the Unites States to continue producing and sustaining its own food.
"We have been losing way too many American farms, while foreign produce is being poured in," he said. "Many believe this will raise prices on the consumer, but that's not the case. Alabama farmers generally receive less than 30% of the retail cost per pound on tomatoes. This simply means produce companies and distributors will choose local tomatoes instead of tomatoes from thousands of miles away. That saves on transportation. This also ensures our family can produce healthy, delicious tomatoes for our future generations and yours."
Young farmer Destiny Allman Gladden said she hopes the Trump administration's decisions will mean she can continue the family business in Blount County.
"Allman Farms & Orchards is owned by my dad, Daniel," Gladden said. "It's my hope that my brother, Chance, and I will get to continue it for years to come. Ending the Tomato Suspension Agreement feels like the first win we've had in years that might actually benefit us."
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