Ensuring a strong and sustainable workforce remains a top priority for the greenhouse and horticultural industry. The challenges surrounding labor availability, workforce development, and regulatory changes continue to evolve, requiring ongoing advocacy in our nation’s capital. At AmericanHort, we actively engage with the 119th Congress and the Trump Administration to address these concerns. Our efforts focus on securing practical labor solutions, ensuring access to a stable workforce, and mitigating the impact of potential policy changes that could affect our industry.
One of the most pressing labor challenges facing our industry is the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR). The H-2A program remains essential for many growers, but ongoing increases in AEWR rates have placed a significant financial burden on employers. We recognize that unsustainable labor costs jeopardize the future of H-2A program users within the horticulture industry. To address this, we are pursuing multiple strategies: advocating for a two-year freeze on AEWR, working closely with Congress to push for reforms, engaging with the USDA and Department of Labor to challenge wage-setting methodologies, and exploring executive actions or legal avenues if necessary. AmericanHort remains committed to securing a fair and predictable labor environment that allows growers to thrive. You may read more about our efforts on AEWR here.
Additionally, with recent changes in immigration enforcement policies, many greenhouse and horticultural businesses are concerned about the potential for workplace enforcement actions. AmericanHort has provided resources and guidance to help businesses maintain compliance and respond effectively in the event of an enforcement action. Ensuring proper record-keeping, verifying employment authorization, and understanding legal rights are essential steps in mitigating risks associated with enforcement measures.
Aside from workforce issues, potential tariffs pose another challenge for our industry. On Feb. 1, 2025, President Trump announced tariffs targeting national security concerns, including illegal immigration and the opioid crisis. The tariffs included a 25% tariff on many Mexican and Canadian goods and a 10% increase on Chinese imports. While Mexico and Canada secured a 30-day pause for negotiations, China’s tariffs took effect on Feb. 4, prompting Beijing to retaliate with new tariffs on U.S. energy and agriculture machinery starting Feb. 10.
These newly proposed tariffs could significantly impact growers who rely on critical imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. More than 90% of potash fertilizer and 96% of sphagnum peat moss used in the U.S. come from Canada, making these tariffs a major concern for the industry. Potash fertilizer and sphagnum peat moss are crucial to producing horticultural plants; price hikes or supply disruptions could raise costs and reduce growers’ market competitiveness. These added costs will ultimately be passed down the supply chain, potentially impacting prices for consumers and growers.
President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, including key U.S. allies like Canada and Mexico, starting March 12. The tariffs also cover finished metal products. President Trump framed the move to boost domestic production and create jobs, warning that tariffs could increase further.
As the industry navigates these challenges, AmericanHort continues to advocate for practical trade policies that support our industry and protect essential supply chains.
As labor and trade policies continue to evolve, AmericanHort remains committed to supporting greenhouse growers and the broader horticulture industry. The Advocacy team will continue to work with policymakers, providing industry guidance, and ensuring our members stay informed on developments that impact their businesses. For further updates, visit the AmericanHort website – AmericanHort.org.
