The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has authorized the export of soursop from Mexico to the United States, with shipments expected to begin by the end of 2024. This decision follows a significant expansion in soursop cultivation in Mexico, where production reached 30,121 tons across 3,270 hectares in 2023, a notable increase from 8,321 tons produced in 2000 over 1,130 hectares.
Soursop, widely used in the food industry for products such as juices, candies, and sorbets, is also valued in traditional medicine for its antiparasitic and pesticidal properties. However, its perishability presents challenges for trade. The National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) of Mexico estimates that, once exports begin, approximately 200 metric tons of fresh soursop could be shipped annually to the continental U.S. market. This compares to an annual average of 256 metric tons imported by the U.S. from Grenada between 2017 and 2023, with a customs value of $1.2 million and a CIF value of $1.6 million.
To facilitate these exports, the U.S. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and the Mexican NPPO are working on an operational work plan. This document will outline the procedures and responsibilities Mexico must follow to meet irradiation program requirements. APHIS will collaborate with the NPPO to implement, monitor, and oversee these activities, ensuring compliance with the necessary standards.
The Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development (Sader) in Mexico sees this export opportunity as a way to improve profitability and sustainability for soursop growers. Increased access to the U.S. market could help secure better prices for producers, potentially enhancing their standard of living.
Source: Opportimes