US Suspends Avocado Inspections in Michoacán, Threatening Export Disruptions
The United States has suspended avocado inspections in Michoacán, Mexico, due to an unspecified threat against American interests. This suspension could delay avocado exports from Michoacán, a leading avocado-producing region. The decision affects the operations of the U.S. Department of Agriculture personnel responsible for inspecting avocado exports. Michoacán's Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla highlighted the importance of the avocado trade, which generates over 200,000 jobs in the state. The suspension comes amid security operations against extortion in the region, with cartels reportedly extorting producers. The avocado producers' association, APEAM, is working with authorities to address the security situation and minimize industry impact.