Inspections of Mexican avocados and mangoes hit pause

The US inspections of avocados and mangoes from the Mexican region of Michoacan have been halted due to a recent security incident where two USDA employees were attacked and detained while checking the fruits, informed the agency official.

The USDA officials have since been released, but inspections are on hold until safety issues are resolved. The pause would not affect avocado shipments already in transit, and inspections in other Mexican states will continue, confirmed officials.

Michoacan’s governor is in discussions with US officials to ensure export safety.

Why is it important?
Mexico is a major avocado supplier to America, providing 89% of the record 2.78 billion pounds imported in 2023.

The suspension comes amid escalating violence in Michoacan, driven by conflicts between the Jalisco New Generation cartel and the local Viagras gang. Three-quarters of Mexico’s avocados are grown in Michoacan.

Not the first
The move follows similar steps taken in 2022 after a threat to a US inspector. Avocado imports from Mexico have historically faced challenges, including pest concerns and border disputes.