web3: Mexico's Avocado Exports Resume After US Lifts Security Alert

CoinWorld reports:

After the United States lifted the security alert for Michoacán, Mexico, local avocado exports have resumed. Orchards, packing plants, and shipping processes to the U.S. that had been halted for several days are now back in operation, and the day laborers who rely on this work have returned to their jobs.

Export Chain Resumes Operations
Following the lifting of restrictions, U.S. Department of Agriculture inspectors have returned to certify avocados for export against pests and diseases. By the weekend, local orchards had resumed operations, packing plants were back to full capacity, and trucks headed for the U.S. were back on the road.

Michoacán is Mexico's primary avocado-producing region. Local industry insiders reported that the halt lasted for 8 days, disrupting the income of many workers. Reports indicate that the avocado industry in Michoacán involves approximately 200,000 jobs.

Security Alert Impacts Supply Chain
The U.S. has not publicly disclosed the specific trigger for this alert. However, criminal groups have long been active in the area, with risks of extortion, threats, and looting persisting. In the past, U.S. inspectors have also faced attacks or brief detentions, and similar incidents have repeatedly led to export suspensions.

For local exporters, security and inspections are two checkpoints on the same chain. As long as the U.S. suspends technical services citing security or plant quarantine reasons, exports will be immediately halted. Industry insiders candidly state that the entire industry is largely influenced by the U.S. market and regulatory arrangements.

High Dependence on the U.S. Market
Currently, over 80% of Mexico's avocados are sold to the U.S. During peak periods, a large volume of goods crosses north daily. Reports mention that in March of this year alone, Mexico's average daily exports to the U.S. approached 4,800 tons.

To maintain exports, harvesting, packing, and transportation all require certification. Harvesters must disinfect tools and check the condition of the fruit as required; packing plants continue quality and pest inspections; after packing, vehicles are sent to the U.S. border. If any link in the chain receives a security alert, the entire line may come to a halt.

Military Reinforcements Have Not Fully Alleviated Concerns
To protect the avocado-producing region of Michoacán, Mexico has recently deployed over 1,500 soldiers and arrested some individuals suspected of extortion. Some growers believe this helps alleviate violence, but the current effectiveness remains limited.

Some industry participants express that the military presence brings a certain sense of security, but they also worry it may provoke new armed confrontations. For local workers and growers, while exports have resumed, the real uncertainty has not yet ended.