California Citrus Mutual (CCM) recently reported on the changes to citrus tariffs as a result of President Trump’s executive order modifying the scope of the administration’s reciprocal tariffs.
Lemons and mandarins remain subject to reciprocal tariffs, ensuring continued tariff parity during the domestic growing season.
Oranges and limes were newly exempted, and grapefruit was exempted only during the month of December.
CCM stated that the exemption for oranges is of particular concern, as orange imports significantly overlap with the U.S. production window and compete directly with domestic growers. Removing reciprocal tariffs on oranges weakens the policy’s intended purpose and may put downward pressure on grower returns during peak seasons in California, Florida and Texas, CCM stated.
The changes were framed as part of the administration’s effort to address consumer affordability concerns. Significant pressure came from agricultural sectors reliant on imported inputs — such as fertilizers — which are difficult to source domestically. Importers and grocery retailers also advocated for broader exemptions to help ease food prices.
Reciprocal tariffs are designed to match or mirror tariff levels imposed by foreign governments on U.S. products. Under the revised structure, several agricultural and food items received new exemptions.
CCM stated that it is coordinating closely with Florida Citrus Mutual and Texas Citrus Mutual to request meetings with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). The objective is to preserve the reciprocal tariff framework for all citrus varieties during the domestic production season and to provide USTR with clearer data on import volumes, pricing impacts and seasonality to better inform future adjustments.
For more information, see the White House media release: Fact Sheet: Following Trade Deal Announcements, President Donald J. Trump Modifies the Scope of the Reciprocal Tariffs with Respect to Certain Agricultural Products.
Source: CCM
Share this Post