USDA Suspends Avocado Inspections in Michoacán Following Security Incident

Captive Inspectors and Avocado Exports

In an unexpected turn of events, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has temporarily suspended the inspections of avocado and mango exports in the Mexican state of Michoacán following a security incident. As per reports, two USDA inspectors were allegedly assaulted and temporarily detained while conducting their duties. This incident has contributed to increased security concerns for US inspectors on the ground.

APHIS suspende inspecciones de aguacates y mangos en Michoacán tras agresión a personal estadounidense

👉 https://t.co/ElvQmE5PHO pic.twitter.com/4DqdMRnZYt

— Embajador Ken Salazar (@USAmbMex) June 18, 2024

Reactions are mixed as many twitter users have surmised that perhaps there is confusion about who the actual inspectors were with respect to country of origin. However, the overwhelming majority of the evidence suggest that the real issue is US Personnel being attacked.

seems odd to me to have USDA inspectors stationed in Mexico. The article sounds like they are mixing stories of attacks in Michoacan against (Mexican?) inspectors with moving USDA inspectors from border towns. I have known lots of USDA and FDA inspectors and never heard of this

— MeriTX (@meri_tx) June 18, 2024

U.S. Embassy Reaction

The US Embassy reacted to the incident a day later, confirming that the inspectors were “no longer kidnapped”. In a rather pointed tweet, a user suggested that the embassy should share some tips with the 384 other victims of kidnapping in Mexico this year, highlighting the rampant issue of kidnapping in the country.

The Impact on Mexico’s Economy

The Mexican press, likely speaking for local interest, have voiced considerable concern about the impact of such incidents on Mexico’s economy. If imports are discontinued, it could significantly affect Mexican exports, particularly in regions like Michoacán where fruit exports are crucial. This situation underlines the necessity for Mexico to reassess its security measures to ensure the safety of USDA inspectors and smooth functioning of its export industry.