President Donald Trump's "Make America Healthy Again" initiative, which seeks to promote healthy food choices and support American agriculture, is encountering challenges related to the import of Mexican avocados. California's approximately 3,000 avocado growers are facing increased competition from Mexican imports, which have surged significantly in the current year.
This surge in imports, particularly during the California growing season from March through October, is disrupting the U.S. market and negatively affecting prices for domestic producers. Reports indicate that avocado shipments from Mexico between January and mid-July saw a 32% increase compared to the same period in the previous year, a trend that threatens the viability of California's family farms. These farms adhere to rigorous labor, environmental, and production standards, distinct from those in some Mexican import regions.
The quality of California Hass avocados is also highlighted, with growers emphasizing their peak maturity, richer oil content, creamier texture, and deeper flavor profile. Consumers choosing California-grown fruit are seen as supporting superior quality and American farmers.
Beyond market disruption, the influx of Mexican avocados raises concerns about the influence of cartels in Mexico's avocado-producing regions. The Treasury Department has documented instances of cartels extorting growers, demanding payments tied to harvests, seizing land, and using violence to control communities. The U.S. Embassy in Mexico issued an alert in August 2026, suspending U.S. government activities due to threats against American interests in Michoacán, a state that produces the majority of avocados exported to the United States. While many Mexican growers are victims of these organizations, the system that ignores cartel coercion can still reward the conditions they exploit.
To address these issues, a seasonal tariff-rate quota (TRQ) on Mexican avocados has been proposed. This measure would allow a set volume of imports to enter duty-free, with higher tariffs applied only after that quota is exceeded. Such a safeguard, potentially achievable during the ongoing USMCA review, aims to maintain year-round supply while providing California growers a fair opportunity to compete during their harvest season. Additionally, the proposal includes enhanced USDA oversight and inspector security to ensure fair trade and prevent disease or infestation. Imports could be suspended if Mexico cannot guarantee security for USDA inspectors.
Supporting California avocado growers is presented as aligning with the administration's goals of putting America first, promoting healthier food options, strengthening the food supply, and sustaining local communities.