Mexico Protests Preliminary U.S. Finding of Strawberry Dumping

The Mexican government has voiced "serious concern" over a preliminary U.S. Department of Commerce finding that Mexican strawberries were sold at unfairly low prices. The ruling, which could lead to anti-dumping duties, targets a trade relationship worth $1 billion in 2025.

Details of the Ruling

In a statement, Mexico's Ministry of Economy confirmed the Commerce Department's investigation found Mexican strawberries were being sold at prices between 3.37% and 5.28% below normal value, with specific rates varying by company. The agency established an average preliminary dumping margin of 4.83%.

This initial determination is a key step in a trade dispute that could result in the imposition of tariffs on winter strawberry imports from Mexico. For investors and supply chain managers, such duties could increase costs for U.S. importers and potentially raise consumer prices.

Economic Stakes and Mexico's Response

The Mexican government argued that the criteria used by the Commerce Department are inconsistent with international trade rules, specifically the World Trade Organization’s Anti-Dumping Agreement and provisions of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

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At stake is a significant agricultural sector for Mexico. In 2025, the country exported 263,000 metric tons of strawberries to the U.S. The government stated the move could affect:

• Nearly 5,000 Mexican strawberry growers, 97% of whom are small- or medium-scale farmers.
• An estimated 151,000 jobs linked to strawberry cultivation.

Background and Next Steps

The anti-dumping investigation was launched after Florida-based producers filed a petition on December 31, 2025. The case now moves to the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) for a final injury determination, which will assess whether the alleged dumping has harmed the domestic industry.

Mexico said it will monitor the process alongside its producers and exporters until the ITC’s final ruling, which is expected in early 2027. That decision will determine if definitive anti-dumping duties are imposed.