WASHINGTON, DC - Last week, we reported that the United States halted all avocado exports from Mexico following the potential endangerment of a U.S. official. Following further investigation of the incident, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS) announced it restarted its inspection program in Michoacan, Mexico, and resumed exports. Upon receiving this news, several industry entities commented.

"On behalf of the entire industry, I would like to thank the authorities of both countries for their support and commitment to reactivate the exports of the Michoacan avocado to the United States in order to avoid, to the extent possible, the impact on supply after the suspension of harvest and shipments announced on Friday, February 11," commented Director General of the Association of Avocado Producers and Packers Exporters of Mexico (APEAM), Armando López Orduña. "We want to recognize the work of the full value chain and the open dialogue and mutual commitment of all the parties involved to reach an agreement that allows the success of this great industry, so we can continue to strengthen, develop, and grow this important export program."

USDA-APHIS explained that it worked closely with the U.S. Embassy in Mexico's Regional Security Officer, Mexico's national plant protection organization (SENASICA), and APEAM to enact additional measures to enhance the safety of its inspectors working the field, a press release noted.

On Wednesday, February 16, APEAM presented a comprehensive proposal for the creation of an Intelligence and Security Unit within the organization to support the export program. On Friday, February 18, the proposal was approved by all parties, and an agreement has been accepted to resume the full export program of Mexican avocados to the U.S. starting Monday, February 21, 2022.

Robert Guenther, International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) Chief Public Policy Officer commented on the recent decision as well.

"The USDA has just announced the resumption of avocado exports from Mexico into the United States after a comprehensive investigation into the threats against a USDA inspector. In particular, USDA has shared that avocados that were inspected prior to the suspension of trade and are currently at the packing facilities will be released. Additionally, the announcement confirmed that inspections have also resumed," commented Guenther.

He continued, stating that, "the safety of our USDA inspectors is paramount. We are grateful that both countries have come to a resolution so that the U.S. and Mexico can continue our positive trading relationship. IFPA looks forward to continuing to work with businesses on both sides of the border and their respective governments to continue to monitor and address these issues, so consumers can continue to enjoy uninterrupted access to fresh produce."

The Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association (MHAIA) also shared its appreciation for the organizations that worked to resume exports, with Ron Campbell, Executive Director, issuing a statement.

"We are extremely appreciative of the diligence and hard work of APEAM and all of the officials on the ground in Mexico to work together to develop a solution to this complex situation," he imparted. "We are pleased that Mexico and the United States will continue working together to fortify the continuous supply chains that promote economic growth and development for this important industry in both countries."

To read the USDA's full release, click here.

For more updates and developments on industry imports and exports, keep reading AndNowUKnow.

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Association of Avocado Producers and Packers Exporters of MexicoInternational Fresh Produce AssociationMexican Hass Avocado Importers Association