The United States halted inspections of avocados and mangoes in the Mexican state of Michoacan after an incident that allegedly endangered American agricultural inspectors.
Suspending New Shipments of Avocados From Michoacan
According to a notice reviewed by Bloomberg, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) informed the Avocado Exporting Producers and Packers of Mexico (APEAM) on Friday, June 14, of its intention to suspend new shipments of avocados from Michoacan.
Due to security concerns for its staff in Michoacan, the USDA has also temporarily halted inspections of the mangoes and avocados in the area. The operations will be temporarily suspended until security is assessed and measures are implemented to protect the staff.
This action won't have an impact on Mexican exports. However, importing any cargo that has not been inspected will be stopped.
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Reported Assaults Prompt the Suspensions
Any document did not specify the incident, but as per local news sources, two inspectors were allegedly assaulted and kept against their will during a demonstration about the police's salary.
APEAM President Julio Sahagun Calderon released a statement on Monday, June 17, stating that the organization is working closely with national and international government bodies to resume avocado exports from Michoacan to the US.
According to ABC News, Michoacan Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla also informed reporters that American and Mexican officials were meeting to address the matter swiftly.
Sahagun Calderon said avocado shipments from Jalisco are running well and have not been impacted.
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