Turkey is putting U.S. almond farmers at a competitive disadvantage, according to a delegation of California representatives. As one of the state’s largest export markets, Turkey plans to raise its duty on U.S. almonds by 15%, adding to an existing 10% retaliatory tariff.
The lawmakers are pushing U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to take immediate action. In a letter Tuesday, they argued that the combined 25% hike is unfairly favoring other almond-producing nations and urged Tai to continue the moment she built in June with removing India’s retaliatory tariffs on almonds.
Aubrey Bettencourt, CEO and president of the Almond Alliance, applauded the delegation and urged the White House and Congress to prioritize the issue in the ongoing trade discussions.
“This tariff hike is not just a number,” said Bettencourt. “It's a direct hit to the livelihoods of thousands of American families.”
Turkey bumps almond tariffs to 25%, triggering outcry from California
