California pear growers seek trade relief as Argentine imports surge

California pear growers say a surge of low-priced pear imports from Argentina is threatening the survival of the state’s historic pear industry.

According to a press release from California Pears, industry leaders are in discussions with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) seeking relief from what they describe as unfair import pressure that coincides with the start of California’s harvest. You can view the full release below.

Since 2016, Argentine fresh pear exports to the U.S. have increased 125%, directly competing with California Bartlett and Bosc pears, according to Chris Zanobini, executive director of the California Pear Advisory Board. While Argentina traditionally supplied winter imports, roughly 70% of shipments now arrive in April and May — just as California growers are preparing to ship fresh fruit.

Zanobini said the influx of low-priced imports depresses the market and harms grower profitability, with some retailers featuring imported pears instead of domestic fruit.

James Christie, president of Bryant Christie Inc., which represents the California pear industry, called the situation urgent. He noted USTR expressed interest in helping U.S. farmers manage import pressures. Industry leaders are requesting relief measures such as import quotas or restricted entry periods, rather than tariffs alone.