Texas Border Business

Pharr, Texas – On Tuesday, October 10th, surrounded by an array of colorful fruits and vegetables, City of Pharr Officials and the Pharr International Bridge welcomed Produce representatives, community members, and elected officials to a celebration marking the start of the 2017-2018 produce season.

The tantalizing smells of lemon, watermelon, and papaya wafted through the room as guests were offered samples of the many produce products that serve as the driving force of Pharr’s economic trade.

The Pharr International Bridge has evolved into the largest land port for fruits and vegetables in the nation. The Pharr International Bridge crosses more than 60% of all the fresh produce coming from Mexico through Texas land ports of entry; this number is expected to grow by more than 50% in the next 3-4 years.

“Produce is the economic driver of our city and international bridge,” said Bridge Director Luis Bazan. “We celebrate the beginning of the produce season and thank our produce importers, suppliers, and distributors who contribute to the economic success of our port of entry, our city, and our region,” Bazan continued.

Keynote speakers for the celebration included: Texas State Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr. and Texas State Representative Sergio Muñoz, Jr., both of whom highlighted the prominence of the produce market and the Pharr International Bridge’s position as one of the most important ports of entry for the U.S. Mexico border.