A bipartisan group of lawmakers led by Representatives Rick Larsen (D-WA-02) and Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04) urged United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to prioritize market access for U.S. blueberries in trade discussions with critical partners in Asia.

“The U.S. is the world’s top blueberry producing nation and increasing exports to markets in the Asia-Pacific region supports producers in our districts and states, creating good agriculture jobs,” the lawmakers wrote.

In addition, the bipartisan letter highlights specific opportunities to support the U.S. blueberry industry in trade discussions with Japan, Vietnam and Korea.

"Blueberry farmers across the state are eager to grow by selling delicious, nutritious Washington blueberries to consumers worldwide," said Rep. Larsen. "Congress and the administration must continue to work together to create jobs by breaking down barriers that prevent U.S. blueberries from competing in important global markets. Working with Rep. Newhouse to support this critical industry helps all of Washington state.”

"The best blueberries in the nation are grown in Washington state, and as the administration continues to negotiate trade agreements, it is critical that we address both tariff and non-tariff trade barriers for our blueberry producers," said Rep. Newhouse. "Expanding market access for American products remains a top priority of mine in Congress, and that includes making sure our blueberries can be enjoyed around the world. I thank Rep. Larsen for joining this effort as we continue to advocate for producers across Washington state.”

To read the lawmakers’ full letter to USTR Greer and Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, click HERE.

What American Blueberry Farmers and Producers are Saying:

“As a third-generation Washington farmer, I’m proud to continue my family’s legacy of supplying high-quality blueberries to consumers worldwide, including Japan, where my family heritage lies. U.S. blueberries are among the best in the world, and I am optimistic that longstanding barriers in markets like Japan, Korea and Vietnam can finally be addressed. Doing so will open new opportunities for growers, strengthen the farm economy and help reduce our agricultural trade deficit. I thank Rep. Larsen for his steadfast support of Washington blueberries and farm families like mine.” – Bryan Sakuma, Sakuma Bros. Farms, Burlington, WA

"As a Washington blueberry grower, I strongly support the administration’s engagement on export priorities for our industry. Our state is one of the nation’s leading blueberry producers, and access to strong export markets is critical to maintaining healthy prices and sustaining family farms. Addressing Japan’s tariff on frozen blueberries, securing access for fresh blueberries into Korea and lowering Vietnam’s high tariff rates are all essential steps to ensure Washington fruit remains competitive against global suppliers. These actions will not only strengthen farmgate returns for growers but also support rural jobs and highlight the premium quality and reliability of Washington blueberries to consumers around the world." – Chad Don, Oasis Farms and NABC Board Member., Grandview, WA

“Blueberry growers have a powerful and positive impact on the U.S. economy, generating $9.1 billion in total economic activity and supporting more than 61,000 jobs each year. We strongly support the bipartisan congressional letter urging the administration to address longstanding trade barriers in key markets like Japan, Korea and Vietnam. Eliminating tariff and nontariff barriers will expand opportunities for family farmers, strengthen the agricultural economy and ensure the U.S. blueberry industry can thrive globally. We thank Reps. Larsen and Newhouse for their steadfast support – not only for Washington growers, but for blueberry growers across the nation who benefit from fair access to export markets and a vibrant blueberry industry.” – Kasey Cronquist, President, North American Blueberry Council

Blueberries: Bipartisan, Bicameral

Joining Representatives Larsen and Newhouse in signing the letter were Rep. Jack Bergman, Rep. Suzanne Bonamici, Rep. Jim Costa, Rep. Sharice Davids, Rep. Suzan DelBene, Rep. Vince Fong, Rep. Val Hoyle, Rep. Bill Huizenga, Sen. Andy Kim, Sen. Angus King, Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet, Rep. John Moolenaar, Sen. Patty Murray, Sen. Gary Peters, Rep. Chellie Pingree, Rep. Kim Schrier, Rep. Austin Scott, Sen. Elissa Slotkin, Rep. Adam Smith, Rep. David Valadao, Rep. Jefferson Van Drew, Sen. Raphael G. Warnock, Rep. Rudy Yakym.

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