Fruit production is down nearly 36% in 2024 from 2003, while vegetable production is down 6.3%, according to the USDA. Imports make up a growing share of fresh produce availability, with 60% of the total fruits and 38% of vegetables in the U.S. supplied by other countries in 2021, with Mexico as the largest supplier. The U.S. prioritizes growing commodities — like corn, soybeans, wheat and sugar. And that's a big sticking point for many small to midsize farmers growing fruits and vegetables. The 2018 farm bill extended into 2024 but expired in September.

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Persons: Angela Huffman, Chip Kent, Tom Vilsack Organizations: United States Department of Agriculture, USDA, Imports, Environmental Locations: States, U.S, Mexico, Locust Grove, Milton , New York