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Impact of U.S. Policy Shift on California’s Avocado Industry Amid Cartel Threats
California avocado growers are deeply concerned about the potential influx of harmful crop pests due to a recent U.S. policy shift. The Biden administration’s decision to end a critical food inspection program has alarmed farmers who fear repercussions from Mexican cartel activities, jeopardizing the thriving avocado industry.
Ken Melban, vice president of industry affairs and operations at the California Avocado Commission, expressed his concerns during a Tuesday Zoom interview. He stated, “We understand the importance of free trade. However, that free trade should not increase risks for our California growers.” Melban emphasized that the U.S. relies heavily on Mexican imports, with 85 to 90 percent of avocado demand satisfied by Mexico.
Termination of the APHIS Program
The Biden administration’s decision in September 2024 to terminate the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service program has raised significant alarm. This program was established to inspect Mexican avocado farms, ensuring that avocados exported to the U.S. were free from pests that could harm American agriculture. This policy change followed alarming reports of threats against inspectors in Mexico.
The responsibility for pest management has shifted to Mexico, which is now tasked with ensuring that avocados sent across the border do not include harmful organisms like seed and stem weevils. These pests pose serious risks to crops, making vigilance necessary to protect American farmers.
Avocado Industry Under Siege
The avocado business has become a multibillion-dollar sector in Mexico, yet it remains deeply affected by crime. Evidence suggests that cartels control significant portions of the avocado supply chain, exploiting farmers for protection and imposing fees. Various studies have highlighted the intersection of crime, avocado farming, and infrastructure in Mexico.
In a statement, Mexico’s Agriculture Department confirmed the end of the APHIS program, arguing that the U.S. health safety agency recognizes the commitment of Mexican growers, who have maintained a sound sanitary record for over 27 years. However, California growers remain skeptical.
Historical Context of U.S. Inspections
Former President Bill Clinton initiated the inspection program in the late 1990s to bolster U.S. agriculture and secure the avocado export pathway. Mexican authorities were responsible for all inspection costs, alleviating the burden on U.S. taxpayers.
Unfortunately, the program faced challenges in 2022 when an inspector in Michoacan received threats against his family. In response, the USDA paused the program, and other inspectors faced violent incidents, prompting further concern regarding safety and operational integrity.
Corruption Risks Without USDA Oversight
Melban asserts that without USDA inspectors in Mexico, the risk of corruption increases significantly. He argues that mere self-certification by Mexican growers will not ensure pest-free avocados. He stated, “We know that without the U.S. government present, the likelihood for corruption exists,” pointing out that without proper oversight, pests could easily enter U.S. farming areas, with potentially devastating effects on the industry.
He stressed that the entire inspection program in place has been funded by Mexico, which underscores their responsibility to maintain quality and safety given the privilege of accessing the U.S. market.
The Cartel’s Influence on Agriculture
Michoacan, known as a primary avocado-growing region, has a notorious reputation for cartel violence. The U.S. State Department has issued travel advisories due to high risks of kidnapping and crime, complicating the relationship between agriculture and security in the region.
Self-defense groups have emerged in Michoacan as farmers seek protection from cartel violence. Melban highlighted the troubling reality that the presence of cartels compromises the integrity of the avocado supply chain, noting, “We’re just looking for the safety of the entire program to protect our growers’ interests here in the U.S.”
Ongoing USDA Commitment to Avocado Safety
The USDA remains committed to ensuring the continued safety of avocados entering the U.S. Despite the current challenges, APHIS has stated that it will fulfill its responsibilities regarding fruit inspection and health risk mitigation. USDA officials have assured that inspection programs and audit oversight of Mexican inspections are still operational.
As APHIS staff continue their inspection duties, they understand the vital importance of avocados to California’s economy. With about 30 years of experience in administering these programs, the USDA is optimistic about maintaining the effectiveness of safeguards against invasive pests.
The Future of California’s Avocado Industry
California remains the leading U.S. producer of avocados, with around 3,000 growers generating approximately $1.5 billion annually. However, industry experts warn that the introduction of pests due to insufficient inspections could severely impact local farmers.
Melban noted the scale of farming in the region, where many growers operate on small, family-owned farms that have been passed down through generations. He emphasized the long-term commitment to maintaining pest-free conditions, citing a dedicated fight against potential threats from Mexico over the last three decades.
Moreover, avocado trees take years to mature, meaning that an infestation could lead to devastating delays in production, with costly consequences for farmers. Melban highlighted the challenges surrounding pesticide use, noting that if pests infiltrate, growers might have no choice but to revert to chemical solutions, a major concern for environmentally conscious consumers.
Political Response and Advocacy Efforts
In response to the policy change, a group of Republican lawmakers from California reached out to the Biden administration, advocating for the reinstatement of the inspection program following the alarming rise of pest detections at packing facilities. They expressed concern that the end of federal inspections would worsen the pest problem significantly.
Congressman Darrell Issa emerged as a key advocate, urging the administration to reverse the decision to uphold safety standards in the avocado industry. Melban has praised Issa’s continued support and collaboration in addressing these challenges.
A Call for Vigilance
The future of California’s avocado sector hinges on maintaining high safety standards and addressing the influence of cartels in Mexico. Given the complexities of international trade and agriculture, stakeholders urge the need for continued oversight to protect U.S. farmers and ensure consumers enjoy quality avocados without the risk of pest-related incidents.
