The National Confectioners Association praised the Obama Administration for proposing a process to resolve a stalemate between the US and Mexico which resulted last summer in 20 percent duties on chewing gum and chocolate destined for Mexican consumers.

“We are hopeful that the Administration’s actions will bring the current stalemate to a successful conclusion and that US confections will once again be available to Mexican households duty-free. Currently US$45 million worth of U.S. confectionery exports to Mexico that have absolutely nothing to do with this trucking dispute are subject to these unnecessary taxes.”

NCA’s President, Larry Graham added, “NCA urges members of Congress to support any reasonable new agreement so that US candy makers can grow exports in line with the Obama Administration’s goal of doubling exports in 5 years. Mexico represents an important market for our industry.”

In 2001 a NAFTA dispute settlement panel ruled that excluding Mexican trucks violated U.S. obligations under that trade agreement and gave Mexico the right to retaliate against US products.