Frozen food manufacturers are encountering a shortage of broccoli and are looking to the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) to increase the supply. Specifically, the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) is urging USTR to approve two petitions seeking permanent duty-free access for frozen broccoli from Ecuador. The trade group warns that without the action, US food manufacturers could face significant supply disruptions and higher costs, which could result in higher food bills for consumers. 

 

AFFI Director of Regulatory and International Affairs John Allan says the resulting increase in import tariffs on Ecuadorian broccoli would “force US companies to scramble for new sources of product, incur additional expenses and reduce their workforces to absorb added costs, with consumers faced with potential supply shortages and increased prices at the grocery store.”