The United States has temporarily halted safety inspections for avocados and mangos from Michoacan, one of Mexico’s key agricultural states, following a security incident involving staff from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Despite this pause, exports from Michoacan have not been completely blocked, and avocados and mangos already on their way to the U.S. will not be impacted, according to a USDA spokesperson.
This suspension, effective “until further notice,” raises concerns about potential disruptions to the supply of avocados, a product that has become increasingly popular among U.S. consumers. As one of Mexico’s top agricultural exports, a prolonged halt in inspections could significantly affect the avocado market.
“The (safety inspection) programs will remain paused until the security situation is reviewed and protocols and safeguards are in place,” stated the USDA spokesperson. The decision follows an incident at a protest in Paracho, Michoacan, supporting local police, which occurred last Saturday, according to a government source in the state.
Governor Alfredo Ramirez of Michoacan has been in continuous communication with U.S. officials since Sunday, assuring them that proper export conditions from the state are maintained. However, Mexico’s agriculture ministry has yet to comment on the situation.
This is not the first time such an incident has occurred. In 2022, U.S. officials also temporarily suspended avocado shipments from Michoacan due to similar security concerns. The state, plagued by gang violence, has posed recurring challenges for inspectors ensuring the safety of agricultural exports.
According to Reuters, the USDA is closely monitoring the situation to determine when inspections can safely resume. The impact of this suspension, if extended, could have far-reaching consequences for both Mexican exporters and U.S. consumers who rely on a steady supply of these fruits.
