The head of the Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development (AGRICULTURA), Columba Jazmin López Gutiérrez, announced that as of this Thursday, August 13, the inspection and export of avocados in Michoacán has fully resumed.
Security Measures Strengthened in Michoacán
Through her X account, the official attributed the decision to the dialogue sessions and joint efforts between Mexican and United States authorities.
This made it possible for avocado producers to resume and expedite shipments of the fruit, which is one of Michoacán’s main agricultural products.
“*As instructed by our President @Claudiashein, we continue supporting our producers, who make our agricultural sector a global benchmark,” the Mexican Agriculture Secretary stated.
She also thanked United States Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson for his support.
On August 5, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) suspended inspection activities by its personnel in the region due to security alerts, incidents, and threats against its inspectors in Michoacán.
Shipments of the so-called “green gold” were put on hold because USDA phytosanitary inspectors were not available, and the suspension lasted seven days.
Meanwhile, federal and state authorities strengthened surveillance and security measures in avocado-producing regions and areas to guarantee the safety of inspectors and producers along roads, in orchards, and at packing facilities.
In fact, 1,500 members of the Mexican Army and National Guard were deployed to the state of Michoacán to reinforce security.
Source: mvsnoticias
