10 agexporter us horticultural trade with nafta partners continues to expand by samuel rosa n 1989 the united states and canada began eliminating import tariffs other restrictions under fta free agreement in 1994 implementation of north american accord was expanded include mexico since then products has significantly america s fruit vegetable industries as well consumers have benefited from new market opportunities opened up lower license elim ination greater consumer choice a more transparent business environment today is top export for hor ticultural while ranks fourth largest positive balance but an increasing deficit calendar 2001 exports reached record 3 billion almost third value all fresh fruits tree nuts vegetables comprised near ly half than 50 percent nut imports 80 its originate
