Commission Responds to USDA Suspension of Avocados from Mexico

On February 11, the California Avocado Commission began engaging with officials concerning reports that the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service suspended the import of avocados from Mexico. On February 14, the Commission followed up on the issue by submitting a letter to USDA Secretary Vilsack.

In the letter to the Secretary, the Commission reiterated its support for a stable supply of avocados — including avocado imports — to meet consumer demand for the fruit in the U.S. The Commission also confirmed its firm belief that all supplies must meet with the existing strict phytosanitary inspection requirements to ensure the California avocado industry is not put at risk due to the introduction of an invasive pest. Both CAC President Tom Bellamore and CAC Vice President Industry Affairs Ken Melban voiced their support for the Department’s quarantine security and sought affirmation that the USDA’s inspections would be maintained with integrity while ensuring the safety and security of its inspectors.

The Commission has been in touch with its counterparts in Mexico to ascertain what happened and get as much factual information as possible. CAC will remain engaged with the USDA as this matter continues to unfold and provide more information as necessary.