Tariffs on Canada and Mexico Suspended: What It Means for U.S. Pork Producers

What does this mean for pork producers?

The initial announcement of the tariffs immediately raised concerns in the pork industry, as CANADA and Mexico are the two major EXPORT countries for U.S. pork. If the tariffs went into effect, the industry would have been bracing for potential retaliatory measures that could significantly disrupt trade and drive down pork prices.

Avoiding retaliatory tariffs – for now

Canada had planned to impose immediate countermeasures, including a 25% tariff on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods , with pork and beef among the targeted products. Likewise, Mexico was expected to retaliate in kind, threatening U.S. pork exports to a market that was worth an estimated $2.55 billion last year. With the pause, those retaliatory tariffs are off the table — at least temporarily.

Uncertainty still looms

While the delay provides a temporary reprieve, the situation remains volatile. If negotiations fail, tariffs could still go into effect after the 30-day window, putting the pork industry under renewed pressure. With the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) still in effect and due to be renewed in 2026, trade tensions could complicate long-term relations.

Chinese tariffs remain in place

While North American tariffs are suspended, Trump's 10% tariff on Chinese imports remains active. The ongoing trade dispute with CHINA continues to weigh on U.S. pork producers who rely on Chinese demand, especially after the country's battle with African swine fever in recent years.

Industry response and next steps

Pork producers and trade groups were relieved that Canada and Mexico had lifted their retaliatory measures, but they are pushing for a long-term solution to avoid disruption. The 30-day window now gives industry leaders the opportunity to advocate for continued free trade under the USMCA while working to keep agriculture insulated from the broader political disputes.

For now, manufacturers will be closely monitoring the negotiations and preparing for possible supply chain adjustments if tariffs are reinstated in early March.