Mexico’s Role in Avocado Supply to the United States
Mexico is a key player in the supply of avocados to the United States, accounting for 81 percent of the avocados consumed in the country. However, recent security concerns in the Mexican state of Michoacán, which is the main avocado-producing state, have led to the temporary suspension of safety inspections on avocado and mango shipments destined for the United States.
The decision to suspend inspections was made after two employees of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) were attacked and detained while inspecting tropical fruits in Michoacán. U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar emphasized that protecting U.S. personnel is a top priority, and inspections will only resume once safety issues have been resolved.
It is important to note that the suspension of inspections will not block all Mexican avocado and mango exports to the United States. Only non-inspected shipments are affected, and products already in transit will not be impacted. Inspections will continue in other Mexican states to ensure the quality and safety of exported avocados and mangos.
The decision to suspend inspections is primarily driven by concerns for the safety of personnel in Michoacán, rather than phytosanitary concerns. The presence of American inspectors in Mexico is crucial to prevent the spread of diseases that could potentially harm U.S. crops. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that avocados from Mexico meet the necessary standards for export.
To address the security situation in Michoacán, Ambassador Salazar will meet with the state’s governor and export representatives of the Association of Producers and Export Packers of Mexico (APEAN). This meeting will focus on finding solutions to enhance security in the region and address other important issues related to avocado exports.
Mexican Avocado Industry and Organized Crime
The recent incidents in Michoacán highlight the challenges faced by the Mexican avocado industry. Gang violence and extortion are prevalent in the region, with avocado growers often being targeted. Many growers claim that they receive threats from drug gangs, involving the kidnapping or death of family members if protection money is not paid. These protection payments can amount to thousands of dollars per acre, putting immense financial strain on growers.
In addition to the security concerns posed by organized crime, there have been reports of avocados grown in non-approved states being illegally brought into Michoacán and then attempting to pass through U.S. inspections. This illicit activity further complicates the already complex avocado supply chain.
Despite these challenges, the avocado sector in Mexico has experienced significant growth in recent years due to strong demand. Between 2014 and 2023, the industry has seen a remarkable growth rate of nearly 75 percent. Mexico’s avocados are not only consumed in the United States but also exported to Canada, Japan, and Spain.
In conclusion, Mexico plays a vital role in supplying avocados to the United States, but recent security concerns in Michoacán have led to the temporary suspension of inspections on avocado and mango shipments. The safety of U.S. personnel is a top priority, and efforts are being made to address the security situation in the region. The challenges faced by the Mexican avocado industry, including organized crime and illicit activities, highlight the need for collaborative efforts to ensure the integrity of the supply chain. Despite these challenges, the avocado sector in Mexico continues to experience significant growth due to high demand both domestically and internationally.
