Key facts
- U.S. agricultural inspections for Mexican avocados were suspended due to security threats in Michoacan.
- Mexico has deployed 1,500 additional troops to the region to bolster security.
- Michoacan is the primary avocado-producing state for the U.S. market.
- The suspension is a preventive measure following recent arrests linked to extortion cases.
- Previous export halts were due to direct violence against U.S. inspectors.
Mexican avocado exports to the United States have been suspended due to security concerns in the western state of Michoacan, a region known for high cartel activity. The U.S. Department of Agriculture halted agricultural inspections, which are required to prevent pests from entering the country, following unspecified threats to U.S. interests. This action is a preventive measure, according to Michoacan authorities, occurring after recent arrests linked to extortion cases.
President Claudia Sheinbaum announced the deployment of 1,500 additional troops to Michoacan to enhance security in avocado production areas and expedite the resumption of exports. The United States is a major consumer of Mexican avocados, with over 80% of its supply originating from Mexico, representing significant sales for the country. The suspension impacts an industry that employs approximately 200,000 people in Michoacan.
Previous export pauses have been triggered by direct violence against U.S. inspectors, such as an incident in early 2024. While these situations are typically resolved within days due to the economic implications for both nations and the cartels themselves, extortion remains an ongoing issue for producers. Some producers report paying substantial daily fees to cartels. While Mexican authorities have offered increased security and suggested they could conduct inspections, the USDA has historically maintained oversight, albeit with security escorts.
Exports from Jalisco, another state authorized for avocado exports to the U.S., continue but constitute a much smaller volume.