Trump threatens 5 percent tariff on Mexico over water treaty violations affecting Texas farmers
President Donald Trump has issued a warning to Mexico regarding the delivery of water owed under a longstanding treaty, stating that the failure to do so is negatively impacting Texas farmers. Trump emphasized that Mexico must release 200,000 acre-feet of water as per the 1944 Water Treaty before December 31st, or face a 5% tariff.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump expressed his concern over Mexico’s violation of the Water Treaty, which has resulted in harm to Texas crops and livestock. He highlighted that Mexico still owes the US over 800,000 acre-feet of water for non-compliance over the past five years. The President emphasized the urgency of releasing the required water and authorized documentation for a tariff if Mexico does not comply.
Texas farm groups had previously raised concerns about a potential disastrous season for citrus and sugar crops due to the ongoing water dispute between Mexico and the US. The two countries have faced disagreements over the treaty in the past, but the current drought-driven shortages are the most severe in nearly three decades.
Last year, the Trump administration and Mexican officials reached an agreement to ensure that Texas farmers receive the necessary water from the Rio Grande. This deal involved Mexico sending water from international reservoirs and increasing the flow from six Rio Grande tributaries to support American agriculture.
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins praised the agreement as a significant step forward and welcomed Mexico’s cooperation in addressing the water supply issues. The 1944 Water Treaty stipulates that Mexico should deliver 1.75 million acre-feet of water over five years from the Rio Grande, while the US should provide 1.5 million acre-feet to Mexico from the Colorado River.
However, Mexico has struggled to meet its obligations under the treaty, leading to severe water shortages in the Rio Grande Valley. These shortages have had detrimental effects on crops, jobs, and the overall economy of the region.
It is crucial for Mexico to adhere to the terms of the Water Treaty to avoid further harm to Texas farmers and ensure the sustainable irrigation of crops and livestock in the region. Trump’s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of water management and cooperation between neighboring countries to support agricultural activities and economic stability.
