FAST FACTSU.S. tariff reductions from Mexican pact* Manufactured goods* Pork* Fruits* VegetablesCost to U.S. of blocking Mexican trucks* Tariffs – $2.4 billion* Damages sought – $6 billionCost of allowing Mexican trucks* Estimates at $500 million in regulatory enforcement costs* Possible lost jobsSource: The Associated Press
U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood signed an agreement Wednesday to resolve a decades-long dispute with Mexican authorities over cross-border truck routes.
Since 1994, the spat has resulted in Mexican tariffs on a long list of U.S.-manufactured products ranging from Christmas trees to sunglasses, and a second round of tariffs that hit producers of pork, cheese and even mineral water.
Wednesday’s agreement allows Mexico-based trucks across the border, though they will be required to comply with all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, and must have electronic monitoring systems to ensure that truckers from Mexico don’t work more hours than their U.S.-based competitors.
The U.S. Department of Transportation also will review drivers’ records, require drug testing sample analysis and require Mexican truck drivers to “undergo an assessment of their ability to understand the English language and U.S. traffic signs,” according to the agency.