Discussions regarding cheese names are a sticking point in negotiations between Mexico and the United States over a new trade agreement. A trade agreement that Mexico previously concluded with the European Union restricts US cheese producers’ exports to Mexico.
In May, Mexico and the European Union signed a trade agreement stipulating that hundreds of European products whose names are linked to specific regions would be legally protected. As a result, cheeses originating from the United States can no longer be sold under those names in Mexico.
For US cheese exporters, Mexico is a key market where a significant amount of turnover is generated. Approximately $1bn worth of cheese is exported to Mexico each year. Total dairy exports from the European Union to Mexico are worth around $200m a year.
The European Commission states that the agreement between the European Union and Mexico cannot be amended and says it has ‘taken note of possible US actions’ against the legal protection of European cheeses.
Photo: SÃœDPACK
