This week the U.S. Commerce Department announced it’s decided to apply tariffs on fabricated steel imports from Mexico. Minnesota Corn Growers Association President Brian Thalmann says he’s concerned about the U.S. reapplying tariffs and possible retaliation from Mexico as they are the top market for U.S. corn.

He says the U.S. must be careful to preserve trade relationships with its most important customers like Mexico and Canada. Thalmann adds Mexico wants U.S. corn and is developing their own ethanol industry which will mean increased corn demand in the future.

Thalmann says the other concern with the latest round of tariffs is even though Mexico’s already ratified the USMCA trade deal, this move could hinder its progress.

The Commerce Department said the determination is preliminary, but the tariff goes into effect immediately.