U.S. Imposes Additional Tariffs on Mexican Tomatoes, Potentially Exacerbating Food Waste

According to the Mexican Economic Newspaper, based on data from Mexico's Agricultural Food and Fisheries Information Service (SIAP), Mexico's tomato production in 2023 was 3.6 million tons, with 1.793 million tons (nearly 50%) sold to the US market; in 2024, Mexico's tomato production slightly increased to 3.7 million tons, with sales still highly dependent on exports.

Despite production growth, domestic tomato consumption in Mexico has stagnated for over a decade. In 2023, Mexico's domestic tomato consumption was approximately 182.87 tons, with per capita consumption around 14.1 kilograms, essentially unchanged from 2022 and slightly higher than 2014 levels.

Mexican startup Cheaf believes that new US tariff policies will not only economically impact Mexican tomato traders but may also exacerbate food waste issues between the two countries.

Braulio Valenzuela, the company's regional manager, stated that even if only 10% of exported tomatoes remain in Mexico after US tariffs, this would mean an additional 178,000 tons of tomatoes to be sold domestically, "If not wasted, Mexico would find it difficult to absorb."

However, Mexico wastes nearly 926,000 tons of tomatoes annually. "Food waste is this severe. Our consumption has remained unchanged for years, and if we cannot export, the market will face saturation risks," Valenzuela warned.

As the primary export market for Mexican tomatoes, the United States will also face food waste consequences. Against the backdrop of food inflation, tariffs will drive up consumer prices and indirectly impact inventory management. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), approximately 35% of food is wasted nationwide. Rising prices for fresh produce like tomatoes will reduce shelf turnover rates, increase supermarket losses, and ultimately exacerbate food waste.

Valenzuela emphasized that food waste in the United States already accounts for over 90% of North America's total. Rising food prices will only add greater pressure to the waste problem.