The United States Government and avocado producers in Michoacán have announced that Mexican avocado exports will begin to normalize starting in July, following a suspension for security reasons. This announcement marks a significant step towards resuming a vital export that has faced recent disruptions.
In a statement, the Association of Producers and Packers (APEAM) explained that they received a message from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) detailing a phased plan for the reopening of operations between the two countries.
“Today we received a communication from the USDA indicating the plan to restart work for all packing plants in the state of Michoacán. There will be three phases,” APEAM stated.
Phased Reopening Plan
According to APEAM, the phased reopening will commence on July 1. On this date, 11 packing plants located in the municipalities of Auitzio del Canje, Condémbaro, Morelia, Pátzcuaro, and Salvador Escalante will resume operations. On July 2, another 14 packing plants will restart activities in Peribán de Ramos and Tacámbaro. Finally, on July 3, 12 more packing plants will begin operations in Ciudad Hidalgo, Ecuandureo, La Cantera, Tancítaro, Tunguindín, Tocumbo, Villa Madero, and Zitácuaro.
Reasons Behind the Suspension
The suspension of Mexican avocado exports to the United States was prompted by security concerns. Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture notified the Mexican Association of Producers and Packers Exporters of Avocado that it would suspend imports from Michoacán. This decision followed reports that two U.S. agricultural inspectors were held against their will during a protest over police salaries.
The situation led to a significant diplomatic engagement. During the week, Mexico and the United States reached an agreement to resume inspections of mango and avocado from Michoacán. This agreement was announced by Michoacán’s governor, Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla, during a press conference, following a meeting with the United States ambassador, Ken Salazar.
The agreement will include close communication between the authorities of both countries and an emergency plan, as explained by Salazar during the press conference.
Political Reactions and Historical Context
The suspension and its resolution have been marked by political discourse. President López Obrador criticized the United States for acting unilaterally in suspending shipments. He argued that the situation could have been avoided with earlier discussions between officials from both countries.
“We asked the United States Government, first, not to act unilaterally. We have very good relations; we are working together,” AMLO said in his daily press conference at the National Palace in Mexico City.
This suspension was the second by the United States on the import of Mexican avocados in the last two and a half years due to security concerns. Despite these disruptions, other states have been able to continue exporting without interruptions.
Economic and Social Impacts
The normalization of avocado exports is crucial for both the Mexican and U.S. markets. Avocados from Michoacán are highly demanded, especially during significant events like the Super Bowl. The suspension had threatened to impact supply chains and market prices, emphasizing the importance of a stable and secure export environment.
This development also highlights the ongoing issues of violence and security in Michoacán, often linked to organized crime. The region’s avocado industry has been a target for criminal groups seeking to exploit the lucrative market.
As operations resume, stakeholders in both countries will need to continue collaborating to ensure the safety and stability of the supply chain, safeguarding the interests of producers, consumers, and the broader economy.
Conclusion
The announcement of the phased reopening of Mexican avocado exports to the United States is a positive development for the agricultural sectors of both nations. With the plan in place, stakeholders are hopeful that operations will resume smoothly and that future disruptions can be avoided through continued cooperation and dialogue.
The United States Government and avocado producers in Michoacán have announced that Mexican avocado exports will begin to normalize starting in July, following . . .
