MEXICO CITY: The United States suspended imports of avocados from Mexico’s top-producing state of Michoacan over security concerns, an industry group and authorities announced Wednesday.
The state government said the suspension is a “preventive measure” following arrests of criminal leaders known for extorting money from the regional avocado industry.
The Association of Avocado Producers and Packers said in a statement that “fruit destined for export won’t be authorized.”
It added that its representatives will have meetings with authorities to address the security situation in the state.
Michoacan is a hotspot of fighting between crime gangs who have diversified into extorting agricultural interests.
