Why Mexican avocado exports to the U.S. have once again been stopped

Key Points:

• Mexico deployed 1,500 additional troops to Michoacan to enhance security in avocado-producing areas following the U.S. suspension of government operations and avocado inspections due to a non-specific threat to U.S. interests.
• The U.S. halted avocado inspections in Michoacan, the main Mexican avocado producer, impacting exports valued at $3.7 billion in 2025, as these inspections are necessary to prevent pests from entering the U.S.
• Cartel violence and extortion in Michoacan, including attacks on USDA inspectors, have led to previous export suspensions; the current suspension is a preventive measure after recent arrests related to extortion cases.
• The avocado industry in Michoacan employs about 200,000 people, and export pauses can cause economic harm, supply shortages, and price increases in the U.S., which relies on Mexico for over 80% of its avocado consumption.
• Mexican authorities have proposed increasing security and potentially conducting inspections themselves, but the USDA currently retains control over verifications, accompanied by Mexican security forces.