The resumption of avocado and mango inspections in Mexico by the USDA is set to begin gradually following a recent pause due to safety concerns. This development comes after U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ken Salazar announced on June 21 that the inspections, which were halted earlier in June, would resume.

The suspension was initially triggered by the illegal detention and subsequent release of two inspectors in Michoacán, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.

Ambassador Salazar emphasized that while the USDA inspectors will start to return to packing plants, there is still significant work required to ensure their safety before full operations can be restored. “However, it is still necessary to advance in guaranteeing their security before reaching full operations,” Salazar noted in his statement. Ensuring the safety of inspectors is crucial for the continuation of avocado and mango trade between Michoacán and the United States.

The halt in inspections has had significant implications for the trade of these popular fruits. As stated in the Produce BlueBook report, U.S. and Mexican officials are set to convene in Morelia, the capital of Michoacán, to address these security issues and discuss the future of the inspection process. This meeting underscores the importance of bilateral cooperation in resolving the safety concerns that have repeatedly disrupted the inspection process.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador has expressed his hope for a diplomatic resolution to the issue. He reaffirmed the commitment of Mexican authorities to protect USDA inspectors working in Mexico, ensuring they can perform their duties without fear of harm.

This recent pause in inspections is not an isolated incident. In 2022, the USDA temporarily halted inspections and suspended imports from Michoacán after an inspector received a threatening call. That stoppage lasted approximately a week and underscored the ongoing risks faced by USDA personnel in the region.

The trade of avocados and mangos between Michoacán and the United States is a significant economic activity, and any disruption can have wide-reaching impacts. Ensuring the safety of inspectors is essential for maintaining the flow of these goods and supporting the agricultural sectors in both countries.

While the gradual return of USDA inspectors to Mexican packing plants marks a positive step towards resuming full operations, the need for enhanced security measures remains paramount. The upcoming meeting between U.S. and Mexican officials in Morelia is a critical opportunity to address these concerns and ensure a safe environment for future inspections. As highlighted in the report, the commitment of both nations to resolving these issues will be crucial for the stability and success of the avocado and mango trade.