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Because of the increased amount of Mexican produce entering the 

 U.S. and related concerns about the violation rate for that 

 produce, U.S. and Mexican officials are working together to (1) 

 analyze and resolve, to the extent possible, differences in 

 pesticide residue standards between our two countries and (2) 

 discuss ways to educate Mexican growers on U.S. import 

 regulations. This unprecedented joint initiative by U.S. and 

 Mexican regulatory authorities is expected to significantly 

 narrow the differences that exist and reduce the violation rate 

 for Mexican produce. The project is indicative of an overall 

 improvement in cooperation and communication between North 

 American environmental protection/pesticide enforcement agencies. 

 Sparked by the prospect of NAFTA, closer coordination between 

 North American regulatory authorities on pesticide issues will 

 strengthen enforcement and enhance consumer and environmental 

 protection throughout the region. 



USTR/LC 9-10-93 



