Lawmakers are applauding plan to end Mexican tariffs

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Washington lawmakers are applauding a plan that ends Mexican tariffs on Washington products.

President Obama and Mexican President Felipe Calderon made the announcement in Washington, D.C. Thursday.

According to U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell, the Mexican tariffs on 90 American products, including potatoes, pears, apples, cherries and apricots, have resulted in $82 million in lost exports.

"Today's (Thursday's) agreement takes a major step toward removing a crushing burden on Washington state farmers," said Sen. Cantwell.  "Resolving this dispute will boost Washington exports and agricultural jobs.  With the removal of these barriers, Washington farmers would be better able to compete fairly in the Mexican market," said Cantwell.

Meanwhile, Rep. Doc Hastings says with the removal of these barriers, Washington farmers would be better able to compete fairly in the Mexican market. "I am pleased that this Administration is finally actively working with Mexico to reach a resolution, yet today's announcement still falls short of what our agriculture based economy so desperately needs," said Hastings.

The tariffs are in retaliation for the United States failing to meet international trade obligations to our largest trading partner.

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