Michoacán avocado exports halted by US over security threat

The United States suspended all inspection activities of USDA officials in Michoacán, effectively halting avocado exports to the U.S. The suspension was issued as a "preventive measure" due to an unnamed threat against American interests. The embargo threatens roughly 200,000 direct and indirect jobs in the state’s avocado sector.

Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla said the action follows recent high‑profile arrests of criminal leaders linked to extortion networks, including Alfonso “La Quiringua.” He confirmed ongoing coordination with the federal government, the U.S. embassy’s security office, and Mexico’s public security agencies to restore the inspectors’ operations as soon as possible. The avocado growers’ association APEAM announced that shipments are not authorized until safety assurances are provided.

Efforts to reactivate the USDA‑APHIS inspections involve direct dialogue with the U.S. embassy and Mexican security forces, aiming to resume the export flow that supports the region’s economy.