Mexico Deploys Troops to Michoacan Amid Avocado Export Halt

Michoacan. Mexico has deployed more than 1500 soldiers and National Guard security personnel in the main avocado-producing region of Michoacan. Mexico has tightened security in this region after the United States temporarily halted inspections necessary for avocado exports, citing security risks. The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) officials conduct mandatory inspections of avocados before export. The halt in these inspections has created problems in sending new batches of avocados from Michoacan to the American market. On August 5, the US temporarily halted government activities in Michoacan, citing threats to Americans. Michoacan is the main center of avocado production in Mexico. It is estimated that Mexico will export a total of 1.31 million metric tons of avocados in 2026, of which about 1.2 million tons are expected to go to the US. In other words, a large portion of Mexico's avocado exports depend on the American market. Organized crime and extortion of avocado businesses have been a problem in the region for a long time. Due to these security risks, US inspections have been affected in the past. Following the latest incident, Mexican and US officials are discussing ways to resume inspections. The Mexican Avocado Association has stated that the current temporary halt will not cause a major shortage in the US market immediately. It stated that the existing stock and products in the supply chain can meet the demand in the near future. However, it has been indicated that if the inspections are stopped for a long time, it could have a major impact on farmers, exporters, transportation businesses, and American consumers.