Hidalgo's Agricultural Exports Weather US Tariff Storm

Despite ongoing trade tensions between Mexico and the United States, agricultural producers in Hidalgo are continuing to export key products like tomatoes, honey, and coffee without significant disruptions. According to Napoleón González Pérez, the Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development in Hidalgo, the primary challenge lies in navigating border inspections to ensure product quality. This resilience is particularly noteworthy as global trade dynamics continue to shift.

Key Export Products

Hidalgo's agricultural sector is actively engaged in exporting several high-demand products to the U.S. These include:

  • Tomatoes: Predominantly harvested in the Valle de Tulancingo, including Acatlán, and the Valle del Mezquital, such as San Salvador. These tomatoes are cultivated in greenhouses to ensure consistent quality.
  • Honey: A sweet staple that finds its way into American households.
  • Coffee: Aromatic coffee beans are also part of Hidalgo’s export basket.
  • Litchi and Yaca: In smaller quantities, these exotic fruits from the Huasteca region are also making their way across the border.

Supporting Local Producers

The state government is actively supporting local producers by ensuring they have the necessary documentation and comply with plant health certifications. This support is crucial for maintaining the smooth flow of exports. González Pérez notes that in the Valle de Tulancingo alone, there are over 400 registered producers working in cooperatives.

Border Challenges and Distribution

Once Hidalgo's agricultural products reach the U.S. border, they are subject to rigorous quality checks. After clearing these inspections, the goods are distributed across various states. As of now, there have been no reports of U.S. tariffs affecting these products, suggesting a stable demand for Hidalgo’s agricultural output. «We are waiting, but I believe not. These are agricultural products that are needed on that side [of the border],» González Pérez stated.

Export Statistics

According to data from the Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía (INEGI), Hidalgo recorded $16,637 USD in agricultural exports during 2024. Furthermore, data from the Servicio de Información Agroalimentaria y Pesquera (SIAP) indicates that in 2023, Hidalgo harvested tomatoes across 883 hectares, with a production value of 502,000 pesos. These figures highlight the economic significance of agricultural exports to the region.

Rabies in Bovine Livestock

In other agricultural news, the Secretary of Agriculture also reported seven cases of rabies in bovine livestock in Hidalgo this year. The disease is transmitted by bat bites and manifests as paralysis. In 2022, there were 25 cases; in 2023, 17 cases; and in 2024, 16 cases. Once the disease is confirmed, the sale of the animal’s meat is prohibited, and the carcass is buried.

Disease-Free Zones

On a positive note, González Pérez highlighted that 27 municipalities in Hidalgo are designated as disease-free zones for livestock. This classification is vital for maintaining the health and safety of the region’s livestock industry.

Looking Ahead

Hidalgo’s agricultural sector is demonstrating resilience in the face of international trade challenges. By focusing on quality, supporting local producers, and maintaining vigilance over animal health, the region is positioning itself for continued success in the agricultural export market. According to Víctor Valera, journalist at Grupo Milenio, continuous monitoring and adaptive strategies are crucial for navigating the evolving trade landscape. The local producers are working everyday to keep afloat with the correct certifications and regulations, in order to maintain the exportations with the United States.