CL_Chilean avocados in bowl

Avocado exports to the US from Tancitaro, Michoacán have recommenced following last week’s temporary suspension over security concerns. Last month, the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service decided to halt avocado export activities in the area in order to ensure the safety of APHIS employees.

Avocados from Mexico said harvesting resumed on Tuesday and the USDA was working with local officials to resume full production as quickly as possible. The organisation said no further suspensions were expected.

Although the USDA did not comment on whether the action was related to the illegal drug trade, it is believed the practice of avocado producers having to pay drug lords for protection is widespread in Michoacán.