Michoacán avocado export inspections suspended by U.S. over security threat

The United States announced a suspension of all USDA‑APHIS inspection activities in the Mexican state of Michoacán, citing a “threat to U.S. interests.” The halt affects the certification required for avocado shipments to the United States, a market that receives about 80 % of its avocados from Mexico.

Michoacán Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla said the suspension is a preventive measure to protect inspectors after recent arrests linked to extortion, including the capture of cartel leader Alfonso Fernández Magallón, known as “El Poncho.” The governor emphasized ongoing coordination with the U.S. Embassy, federal and state security agencies, and the goal of restoring safe inspection conditions.

The Association of Producers and Packagers Exporters of Avocado of Mexico (APEAM) demanded immediate security guarantees for inspection personnel and urged the rapid resumption of export operations. The avocado sector supports roughly 200,000 jobs in Michoacán and generated $3.65 billion in U.S. sales in 2025. The suspension follows two prior interruptions in 2022 and June 2024, and 300 security personnel have been deployed to the Los Reyes area as a precaution.