"This is the first step in the process for Mexico to remove its retaliatory tariffs on US agricultural goods, with 50 percent of the tariffs being lifted upon signing and the remaining tariffs being removed once the first Mexican truck that meets US requirements enters the United States," said Bob Stallman, president of the American Farm Bureau.

Mexico’s retaliation has resulted in duties ranging from 5 percent to 25 per cent on targeted fresh and processed US agricultural products destined for the Mexican market, Mr Stallman said.

"It is important that the US live up to its trade agreement obligations under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) allowing for the cross-border delivery of international cargo from Mexico into the United States. Any effort by Congress to prohibit this from moving forward will cause Mexico to once again put tariffs in place, putting the burden of non-compliance back on US farmers,” concluded Mr Stallman.