CLAYTON COUNTY, Ga. — Vendors who sell fruits, vegetables and other goods imported from Mexico at the Atlanta State Farmer’s Market say they fear the impact a 25% tariff could have on their sales.
President Donald Trump paused the imposition of the tariff Monday after Mexico agreed to strengthen its border with 10,000 troops to stop the flow of drugs, especially fentanyl, into the United States.
“It’s a stressful situation. We’re glad it’s been paused, but it will increase the price for everybody.” Ervin Reyes Hernandez told Channel 2’s Tom Regan.
Hernandez helps manage his family-owned company, Aleva Trucking and Produce.
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Located next to the farmer’s market, Aleva is the largest distributor of Hispanic produce in the Southeast. Much of it comes from Mexico.
“Everyone thinks, ‘Oh Mexico, avocados, limes’. No, it’s everything. You’re talking about Roma tomatoes, beef steak tomatoes, carrots, peppers, parsley, okra,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez, whose company ships Mexican produce to grocery stores, convenience stores and restaurants, is worried about the possible impact the import tariff will have on sales and customer’s ability to pay for the added cost.
“When you’re talking about a 25% increase in prices, that is a lot to them because they don’t make that much. All of my clients in Gainesville, the Atlanta area, the metro area, even Tennessee, are worried for their customers. Because as much as you would like to eat the cost, you can’t eat all of it,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez said he also expected the tariff on produce would increase the cost of eating at a Mexican restaurant.
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