International Programs

The US is among the world’s leading producers of apples and is constantly looking for new markets throughout the world. Introduction of the North American Free trade Agreement (NAFTA) promised to open the doors to new market opportunities in Mexico. The purpose of this study was to investigate if NAFTA caused any changes in the production and marketing techniques of apple growers in the US and Mexico.
For our survey 30 growers from the US and Mexico were selected. Fifteen growers were chosen randomly from the main apple producing region of each country. These areas were Chihuahua, Mexico and the Pacific Northwest in the U.S. Selected growers were interviewed in person. Questions focused on production and marketing techniques before and after NAFTA was introduced.
The research revealed significant changes during this period, most notably an increase in acreage, and a more diverse marketing system for Mexico. Results showed that 53% of all growers interviewed felt NAFTA had affected the value of their apples. It also indicated that different apple varieties were grown in each country due to differences in climate, consumer demands, and varieties available.
Although NAFTA has played a role in this transition, it is not the leading cause for most of the current changes in the apple industry. Both U.S. and Mexican producers shared similar concerns for their future. They worry about further international competition, which will affect the global supply and demand of apples.