California’s nearly 3,000 avocado growers, many of whom are family farms that generate about $1.5 billion annually, are warning that the surge of Mexican avocados entering the United States could threaten both national security and the state’s agricultural health.
Rapid growth in Mexican avocado shipments
During the first half of 2026, Mexico shipped 670,026 metric tons of avocados to the United States, a 34 percent increase over the same period a year earlier. The primary producing region, Michoacán, has had to deploy more than 1,500 soldiers and National Guard personnel to protect orchards, packing houses, inspectors, trucks and supply routes after a security crisis forced a temporary suspension of U.S. inspection activities.
Cartel extortion and its impact on consumers
Cartels operating in Michoacán have been accused of extorting growers, with one producer telling the Associated Press that he pays an extortion fee of over $5,000 per day for each kilogram exported. When American shoppers purchase those avocados, a portion of the money can ultimately flow to criminal organizations.
Inspection changes raise alarm
In late 2024, the Biden administration altered a long‑standing inspection program administered by the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). The new protocol reduced the presence of American inspectors in Mexican orchards, a move growers say weakens oversight and could allow fruit from uncertified orchards into the U.S. supply chain. Since the change, more than 150 pest interceptions have been recorded at Mexican packing facilities, raising fears that invasive pests could establish themselves in California.
Calls for a “product of USA” approach
California growers argue that American avocados should receive priority in the market and that foreign producers seeking access must meet U.S. safety and transparency standards. They point to the economic and employment benefits of domestic production, as well as the labor, environmental and food‑safety regulations that protect American workers and consumers.
What this means for families
For parents and consumers who value food safety and want to support American families, the growers recommend choosing California‑grown avocados when they are in season. They also urge policymakers to restore robust, on‑the‑ground inspections of imported fruit and to consider labeling that reflects compliance with U.S. standards.
While the debate is not about banning Mexican avocados, the growers stress that a transparent, secure supply chain is essential for national food security and for keeping criminal enterprises out of the American marketplace.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
