The United States has suspended all government operations in Mexico's Michoacan state, including the crucial inspections of avocados destined for export, citing a "threat to U.S. interests." This action could disrupt the flow of avocados, a significant commodity for both countries.
Michoacan, the leading exporter of avocados to the U.S., faces high levels of organized crime, with at least four cartels operating in the region. These groups engage in various illicit activities, including the extortion of the avocado industry.
The suspension of inspections is intended to safeguard workers, according to Michoacan Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla. He stated on social media that the temporary halt was a response to recent arrests linked to extortion. These inspections by the U.S. Department of Agriculture are necessary to ensure exported produce is free of pests and meets U.S. import requirements.
Michoacan State Security Secretary Antonio Cruz confirmed that one of the recent arrests was of Alfonso Fernández Magallón, known as “El Poncho,” who leads a local cartel in the avocado-growing area around Los Reyes. The U.S. government had offered a $5 million reward for his capture. U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson welcomed the arrest, which occurred over the weekend.
While Cruz stated his department was unaware of any direct incidents involving avocado inspectors, approximately 300 security personnel have been deployed to the Los Reyes area as a precautionary measure. The governor emphasized that ensuring the necessary security conditions for operations to resume normally is the priority.
Mexico supplies about 80% of the avocados imported by the United States. In 2025, Mexico exported $3.65 billion worth of avocados to the U.S., with exports increasing by 35% in the first four months of the current year compared to the same period in the previous year. Avocado cultivation in Michoacan alone generates around 200,000 jobs.
This is not the first time the U.S. has suspended avocado inspections in Mexico due to threats and violence against inspectors. The U.S. government previously offered a reward for the arrest of Fernández Magallón.