During a recent visit to Mexico, US Department of Agriculture (USDA) under secretary Edward Avalos confirmed that the state of Jalisco was certified to ship avocados to the US.
Jalisco joins the neighboring state of Michoacán as authorised avocado suppliers to the US market.
Mexico’s export programme is managed by APEAM in close partnership with the USDA and SAGARPA, Mexico’s agriculture ministry.
Historically, the state of Michoacán has produced all Mexican avocados exported to the US which totaled nearly 1.8bn pounds last year and represents over 75 per cent of the avocados consumed annually in the US.
The total volume from Jalisco is expected to be between 100-110m pounds for the 2016/17 season with the first shipments likely beginning in July. Jalisco will have about 6,000ha certified for export.
US demand for avocados has more than doubled in the last ten years and now exceeds 2bn pounds per year. The harvesting season for Jalisco is complementary to the year-round supply from Michoacán - Jalisco’s volume will augment traditionally lighter months in Mexico’s overall supply and bolsters its ability to provide strong, steady volumes to the US market all year long.
“We are pleased that Jalisco is now part of APEAM’s export programme to the US,' said APEAM Chairman, Antonio Villaseñor.'There is decades of experience behind avocado production and packing in Jalisco, which will continue to benefit our industry partners and consumers.'
Mexico is the largest avocado producer in the world and the only place where avocados are available year-round, thanks to a blooming season that lasts the entire year.
According to Avocados From Mexico Chairman, Michael Browne: “The Avocados From Mexico marketing team has worked tirelessly to build sustainable demand across the United States. The news from USDA to expand acceptable growing regions will help to assure year-round supply of fresh avocados from multiple states in Mexico to further support future demand and category growth.”
