Due to security concerns, the U.S. has temporarily suspended inspections of avocados and mangos in the Mexican state of Michoacán. Two American inspectors, who are working for the USDA, were detained last Friday during a demonstration in Paracho, a city just north of Michoacán's second-largest city, Uruapan.
Inspections will remain on pause until the security situation has been reviewed and safeguards are in place for USDA personnel. While exports themselves aren't blocked, produce can't be shipped across the border without having been inspected. Michoacán is a key fruit and vegetable growing region in Mexico. The state represents about 75 percent of the country's avocado production as its rich volcanic soil provides optimum conditions for avocado trees. The state is also an important mango growing region with both fruits currently being in season.
Growers and shippers are hopeful the situation will be resolved in a few days and inspections will soon resume to prevent interruptions in supply. With Independence Day around the corner, the end of this week and all of next week are crucial for the 4th of July holiday pull.
Mexican officials have been struggling to maintain secure conditions in Michoacán where cartels are getting stronger, resulting in widespread violence. As a result of the incident, the U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico put a security alert on their website reminding U.S. citizens not to travel to the state of Michoacan. The U.S. government has advised any of its employees currently in that area to shelter in place. The Department of State's travel advisory for Michoacan is level 4 – Do Not Travel due to crime and kidnapping.