Mexico plans security boost to resume avocado exports to U.S.

Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum has unveiled a strategic plan aimed at reactivating avocado exports to the United States, following a recent suspension prompted by security concerns for U.S. personnel. The announcement came after a meeting with leading avocado industry representatives from Michoacán, a state central to Mexico's lucrative avocado trade.

Sheinbaum assured that security in Michoacán would be significantly bolstered, describing the action plan as "very good" and expressing confidence in its acceptance by U.S. authorities. The suspension occurred because U.S. inspectors, essential for certifying orchards and packing facilities, were reportedly threatened. This certification process is a prerequisite for exporting avocados to the U.S. market.

To address the issue, the Mexican government, through its foreign ministry and security officials, has requested an urgent meeting with the U.S. embassy. The goal is to swiftly reinstate the inspection process, potentially by utilizing inspectors from Mexico's National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety, and Quality (Senasica) if necessary.

The reinforcement of security will extend to areas in Michoacán where the National Guard's presence has been insufficient. This move follows previous security enhancements in Uruapan, a major avocado hub, which included deploying the National Guard and the Army, leading to several arrests. President Sheinbaum indicated that if the export suspension is brief, the economic impact on Mexico would not be substantial, noting that such disruptions have occurred previously.