A bipartisan group of lawmakers, led by Representatives Rick Larsen (D-WA-02) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04), has urged United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to prioritize market access for U.S. blueberries in trade discussions with partners in Asia.
"The U.S. is the world's top blueberry-producing nation, and increasing exports to markets in the Asia-Pacific region supports producers in our districts and states, creating good agricultural jobs," the lawmakers wrote in their letter.
The letter highlights specific opportunities in Japan, Vietnam, and Korea. Rep. Larsen said, "Blueberry farmers across the state are eager to grow by selling delicious, nutritious Washington blueberries to consumers worldwide. Congress and the administration must continue to work together to create jobs by breaking down barriers that prevent U.S. blueberries from competing in important global markets. Working with Rep. Newhouse to support this critical industry helps all of Washington state."
Rep. Newhouse added, "The best blueberries in the nation are grown in Washington state, and as the administration continues to negotiate trade agreements, we must address both tariff and non-tariff trade barriers for our blueberry producers. Expanding market access for American products remains a top priority of mine in Congress, and that includes making sure our blueberries can be enjoyed around the world. I thank Rep. Larsen for joining this effort as we continue to advocate for producers across Washington state."
Growers also voiced their support. Bryan Sakuma of Sakuma Bros. Farms in Burlington, WA, stated, "As a third-generation Washington farmer, I'm proud to continue my family's legacy of supplying high-quality blueberries to consumers worldwide, including Japan, where my family heritage lies. U.S. blueberries are among the best in the world, and I am optimistic that longstanding barriers in markets like Japan, Korea, and Vietnam can finally be addressed. Doing so will open new opportunities for growers, strengthen the farm economy, and help reduce our agricultural trade deficit."
Chad Don of Oasis Farms and board member of the North American Blueberry Council (NABC), said, "As a Washington blueberry grower, I strongly support the administration's engagement on export priorities for our industry. Addressing Japan's tariff on frozen blueberries, securing access for fresh blueberries into Korea, and lowering Vietnam's high tariff rates are all essential steps to ensure Washington fruit remains competitive against global suppliers."
Kasey Cronquist, President of the NABC, added, "Blueberry growers have a powerful and positive impact on the U.S. economy, generating US$9.1 billion in total economic activity and supporting more than 61,000 jobs each year. We strongly support the bipartisan congressional letter urging the administration to address longstanding trade barriers in key markets like Japan, Korea, and Vietnam."
The bipartisan letter was signed by more than 20 lawmakers from both chambers of Congress, reinforcing the industry's push to expand international market access.
For more information:
Rep. Rick Larsen
Tel: +1 425 252-3188
www.larsen.house.gov