In Michoacan, Mexico, the U.S. ambassador highlighted the need for stringent measures to combat the export of avocados from illegal orchards to the United States, addressing sustainability and legality concerns in the avocado trade. Amidst the environmental and legal issues plaguing Mexico's avocado industry, the ambassador's statement during a visit to the region emphasized the importance of ensuring that avocados from unauthorized plots do not reach the U.S. market. This stance was supported during a news conference with Michoacan Governor Alfredo Ramirez.
Michoacan's avocado sector, vital for its economy, is under scrutiny due to illegal orchards contributing to deforestation and water extraction, impacting biodiversity and sustainability. The ambassador advocated for consequences for violations and a shift towards environmental accountability in trade protocols. Governor Ramirez disclosed that over 30,000 hectares had been deforested in Michoacan between 2018 and 2023, with 817 illegal avocado orchards identified. A proposed export protocol revision aims to incorporate environmental guidelines to trace avocados from origin to consumer, ensuring environmental standards compliance.
Source: latinamericanpost.com