American Blueberry Growers Alliance (ABGA) Disappointed in Blueberry Research Verdict

The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) issued a verdict on the recent blueberry investigation. The USITC found that imports of fresh, chilled and frozen blueberries were not sufficiently detrimental to US producers. The Commission found that increased imports of blueberries did not cause substantial injury or pose a serious threat. The American Blueberry Growers Alliance (ABGA), which includes growers from California, Georgia, Florida and Michigan, was disappointed by Thursday's decision.

"We do not agree with the result of the Commissioner's investigation," ABGA said in a statement. “Throughout this case, United States blueberry growers provided ITC with extensive data and personal experiences on the significant damage caused by increased imports in the supply and prices of blueberries in the US market, especially during our critical growing and harvest seasons. "

The investigation was initially initiated in September 2020 at the request of the US Trade Representative ABGA was actively involved in the blueberry investigation, highlighting cases of damage created by increased imports. Blueberries from Canada, Mexico and South America were said to be jeopardizing the vitality of US growers. Total blueberry imports have increased 75 percent over the past five years. Several elected officials and agricultural groups issued messages in support of the effort to address problems within the blueberry industry.

The USITC was unanimous in its decision regarding the blueberry investigation, resulting in a 5-0 vote. The investigation was conducted under Section 202 of the Commerce Act of 1974. “As a result of today's vote, the investigation will be terminated and the Commission will not recommend a remedy to the President. The Commission will present its report with its determination of injury and the basis for it to the President before March 29, 2021 ”, stated the USITC in a press release. A public report related to the investigation will be available after the report is presented to the President.

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