ITC studies show heavy Mexican squash, cucumber imports hurting U.S. farmers

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) reports have highlighted a significant surge in fresh cucumber and squash imports from Mexico, reaching unprecedented levels that have negatively impacted domestic production and job opportunities for U.S. farmers, particularly in Florida. The ITC finds that these imports have led to a decrease in domestic production by 567,000 metric tons and a loss in revenue close to $500 million over five years. Florida Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried has called for federal government action, emphasizing the need for trade relief to address the harmful effects of unfair practices and unchecked import growth by Mexico and other countries, which threaten U.S. farmers and the domestic food supply. These findings are in line with previous reports from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service, underscoring the urgent need for government intervention to protect U.S. producers from the adverse impacts of increased imports.