The Mexican agri-food sector has begun to feel the effects of the trade war unleashed by tariffs imposed by the United States. The most recent blow came with worrying figures: a drop of up to 14.9% in exports of some of the most emblematic products of the national agricultural sector, such as meat, berries, tomatoes, and beer.

According to a report by the Agricultural Markets Consulting Group (GCMA), in March 2025 alone, the total value of Mexican agri-food exports fell by 3.2%, compared to the same month last year. This is equivalent to 160 million dollars less, in a context dominated by trade uncertainty and new barriers imposed by the US government.

A direct blow to the heart of Mexican agriculture

The report revealed that the most severe decline was recorded in the sector of cattle and beef, with a decrease of 14.9% in exports, which translates into a decline of almost 125 million, leaving the total at 714 million at the end of the first quarter of 2025.

They were closely followed by berries –specifically strawberries and raspberries–, with a collapse of 9.9%, which represents a loss of approximately 137 million, to be placed in 1,243 million.

El red tomato or tomato, another key agricultural export product, also recorded a significant drop in 7.8%, with a decrease of about 72 million, leaving a final balance of 859 million.

These data show how the most representative and commercially successful products of Mexican agriculture are being directly affected by the tariff tensions imposed by the country's main trading partner: United States, which receives more than 80% of all Mexican agri-food exports.

The beer is also cooled outside.

One of the most striking data is the fall in exports of beer, the Mexican agro-industrial product most sold abroad in recent years. Although its decline was more moderate, 1.1%, this represents a loss of almost 18 million, closing the quarter in 1,566 million.

This decline, although minor compared to other products, marks a worrying change in an industry that has historically been resilient to trade fluctuations.

• Bovine, cattle more meat: 714 million dollars / –14.9%.
• Berries: 1,243 million dollars / –9.9%.
• Tomato or red tomato: 859 million dollars / –7.8%.
• Sugar: 568 million dollars / –6.4%.
• Beer: $1,566 billion / –1.1%

Mexican exports that increased

• Avocado: $1,239 billion / +30.4%
• Tequila: $1,029 billion / +9%
• Chilies: $729 million / +3.1%.

Not everything is negative: Avocado and tequila on the rise

Despite the overall negative outlook, some products managed to emerge victorious and register increases in their foreign sales. mexican avocado, for example, stood out with a impressive growth of 30.4%, reaching the 1,239 million.

Also, the tequila, another national insignia, achieved an increase of 9%, with exports that added up 1,029 million. Also they fresh and dried chilies showed signs of resilience, growing a 3.1%, worth 729 million.

The context: uncertainty, tariffs and trade tensions

This decline in agrifood exports cannot be understood without considering the growing uncertainty in international markets, especially following the recent tariff measures imposed by the United States. These restrictions have increased the cost of entering that market and hampered the competitiveness of Mexican products compared to other international suppliers.

Furthermore, Mexican producers face double pressure: on the one hand, rising logistics and production costs; on the other, the urgency of maintaining quality and export volume to avoid losing ground in the North American market.

Participate in the International Blueberry Seminars most important, and be part of the World Blueberry Tour!

To know the program of the 36th International Blueberry Seminar enter the following link: XXXVI Seminar Mexico 2025

To purchase your ticket to the 100% in-person event, click here HERE