Michoacán is advancing its environmental protection efforts through the certification of avocado orchards, with further plans to certify agave and berries for export. This initiative aims to offer products that are free from deforestation, responding to concerns from companies about the origins of their agricultural inputs. The state's Secretary of the Environment, Alejandro Mendez, highlighted upcoming projects to certify berry packaging, marking a significant move towards distinguishing Michoacán's exports.
The certification process for agave, crucial for tequila production, has also been set in motion with a decree signed by the governor and an agreement with the Tequila Regulatory Council. Starting from 2027, any agave planted in deforested areas will be excluded from tequila production. Mendez stated, "No agave that was planted in a deforested area will end up being used as tequila. Maybe something else can be done with that agave, but not anymore." This measure aims to curb deforestation in areas previously cleared for agave cultivation, with plans to extend certification to mezcal agave as well.
In the context of berry production, Michoacán, alongside Jalisco, Baja California, and Guanajuato, dominates the industry, accounting for 96.8% of Mexico's production volume and 97.3% of its value. A significant portion, 65%, of the berries produced are exported to markets in the United States, Chile, Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. Berries, defined both by their culinary and biological characteristics, are a key export for Michoacán, reflecting the state's commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural practices.
Source: Blueberries Consulting