Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross and Mexican Secretary of Economy Ildefonso Guajardo announced June 6 a new agreement in principle to suspend antidumping and countervailing duties against Mexican sugar imports into the United States.
“We have gotten the Mexican side to agree to nearly every request made by U.S. industry to address flaws in the current system and ensure fair treatment of American sugar growers and refiners,” Ross said.
“I am glad to say that Minister Guajardo and his colleagues have been honest and collaborative partners in seeking a fair and sustainable solution. This bodes well for our long-term relationship.”
These new agreements between the U.S. and Mexico, as well as the Mexican sugar industry, prevent dumping of Mexican sugar and corrects for subsidies the Mexican sugar industry receives. The agreement addresses the concerns of the U.S. sugar industry and prevents harm to other U.S. industries, including confectioners, beverage producers and corn growers, that might have resulted if no agreement were reached.
“Unfortunately, despite all of these gains, the U.S. sugar industry has said it is unable to support the new agreement, but we remain hopeful that further progress can be made during the drafting process,” Ross said. “We look forward to continuing discussions with them as we finalize the agreement. We remain confident that this deal defends American workers across many industries and is the best way to ensure stability and growth.”
Source: www.hpj.com