NOGALES, AZ & MISSION, TX - Word continues to circulate along the U.S./Mexico border of possible strikes deterring the delivery of fresh produce into the country. While there have been reports of planned protests, industry leaders Lance Jungmeyer and Bret Erickson took the time to tell me that they are well prepared.
“We’ve heard the whispers, there have been numerous threats of disruption but so far none have happened,” Lance, acting President of the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas, says. “What we do as an association is make our customers aware of any situation and work with both sides of the border, with customs, and officials to ensure that even if a strike happens we can work with the authorities to ensure that fresh produce can get through.”
As we reported previously, a change in the monitoring of fuel prices in Mexico has caused a rapid spike in fuel prices that has acted as a catalyst for a number of strikes and protests in the transportation industry.
“There was a recent change in the regulation of the fuel industry that caused a spike in gas prices we are hearing, and this week we received an advisory that Mexico authorities would have additional resources ready to divert traffic at the border and bridges,” Bret, CEO and President of the Texas International Produce Association, says.
Upon the policy change, a source reported that while the majority of produce commodities imported into the U.S. from Mexico are in ample supply, categories that could be affected include asparagus, bell peppers, squash, strawberries, tomatoes, and more.
“In Texas, I have talked with the folks at CBP, as well as customs brokers, and so far no one is anticipating any delays in the Texas ports,” Bret shares.
Lance assured that Arizona, too, is prepared for–but not expecting–delays.
