US suspends avocado inspections in Mexico's Michoacán over security threats

The United States has issued a security alert, suspending all operations in Mexico's western state of Michoacán, including the crucial verification of avocados for export to the U.S. The alert cites "a threat against U.S. interests" and designates the entire state as a no-travel zone.

Michoacán is a known hotspot for organized crime, with at least four cartels operating in the region, previously designated as foreign terrorist organizations by the Trump administration. The U.S. Embassy did not specify the exact nature of the threat but its suspension directly impacts the inspectors working for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The Association of Producers and Packers of Avocados of Mexico (APEAM) warned that the alert "directly impacts" the inspectors and paralyzes avocado processing starting Wednesday. Industry leaders are heading to Mexico City for meetings with authorities. Mexico supplies approximately 80% of the U.S. avocado imports, making these inspections vital.

Inspectors monitor plantations and packing houses in Mexico to ensure exported products are free of pests that could harm U.S. farmers. However, threats, extortion, and violence against these inspectors have repeatedly caused work stoppages and affected exports. A similar incident occurred in 2024 due to an assault on inspectors. In September of that year, the U.S. announced it would shift inspection responsibilities to the Mexican government, though the current arrangement remains unclear.