According to a report released by the Bureau of International Labor Affairs, child labor is used to cultivate tomatoes and chili peppers in Mexico.  The U.S. Department of Labor announced on October 4th that $5 million will be used to support “standards to combat labor abuses by employers in Mexico's tomato and chili pepper sector supply chains”.

Vegetables are imported to the U.S. from Mexico in accordance with the USMCA that specifies minimum standards for employment and remuneration. How will the allocation be used to rectify what must be regarded as a broad socio-economic injustice common to developing nations? What accountability will be used to ensure that public funds are expended in accordance with Federal guidelines?

Surely it is up to authorities in Mexico to police their own producers. Why do U.S. taxpayers have to support a project in Mexico to improve working conditions and empower workers?  If Mexico wishes to supply the U.S. with vegetables and fruit it is up to state and government authorities in that Nation to inspect and certify compliance with the USMCA.