US Partially Resumes Avocado Inspections in Mexico's Michoacán

The United States has announced a partial resumption of its activities in Mexico's Michoacán state, the heart of the country's avocado production, following a suspension driven by security concerns. According to a statement from the U.S. Embassy, official U.S. government activities will restart in some towns within Michoacán's “avocado belt” on Saturday, based on commitments from the Mexican government and implemented security measures. This development follows the halting of inspections on Wednesday due to threats against U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) inspectors, which are crucial for avocado exports from the region to the U.S.

The U.S. decision to suspend all government operations in Michoacán was described as a threat to U.S. interests and included stopping the inspections required for avocado exports. Michoacán Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla stated that the temporary halt in inspections was intended to safeguard workers following recent arrests linked to extortion cases. The apprehension of a cartel leader known as “El Poncho” in the region was also cited as a trigger for the decision. Similar security incidents had led to temporary suspensions of U.S. avocado inspections in 2022 and 2024.

Mexico supplies approximately 80% of U.S. avocado imports, with Michoacán accounting for a significant portion of these exports. In 2025, avocado sales from Mexico to the U.S. reached $3.7 billion. The suspension of inspections had the potential to disrupt the U.S. avocado supply chain and drive up prices. The avocado industry in the region is often referred to as “green gold” and generates around 200,000 jobs in Michoacán alone. Therefore, any prolonged disruption to exports could have severe economic consequences for Mexico.

This situation reflects Michoacán's long-standing challenges with organized crime and gang violence. Cartels generate income not only from drug trafficking but also through extortion across various industries, including the lucrative avocado sector. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that security would be increased in avocado production areas, with over 1,500 soldiers and National Guard personnel deployed to Michoacán, to expedite the resumption of exports and prevent any serious impact on Mexico's economy.

The U.S. Embassy stated that it would continue to evaluate conditions and adjust operations as appropriate, without providing a clear timeline for a full restart of activities. The Mexican Hass Avocado Association (APEAM) indicated that they do not expect a significant near-term impact on cross-border sales, noting that existing inventories and products already in the supply chain should continue to meet U.S. demand. However, a prolonged suspension could lead to price increases and supply shortages for U.S. consumers. While Jalisco state has also been authorized to export avocados to the U.S. since 2022, its volume is considerably smaller compared to Michoacán.