Bell Pepper Imports, Flowers and Food Waste

SENASICA authorized Mexican producers to export bell peppers to Japan, concluding 16 years of negotiations. Meanwhile, flower prices in Mexico rise by as much as 300% around Valentine’s Day, with producers beginning to prepare as early as late 2025 for the holiday.

This is the Week in Agribusiness and Food!

SENASICA Lists Authorized Bell Pepper Exporters to Japan

Mexican authorities authorized approved companies to begin exporting bell peppers to Japan, concluding more than 16 years of negotiations and a technical review process led by SENASICA and AMHPAC. The move supports market diversification for a sector that reached US$1.72 billion in exports in 2025 but remains heavily dependent on the United States, which historically absorbs the vast majority of shipments. Industry leaders view Japan as a premium gateway to Asia, with ongoing efforts to optimize maritime logistics and expand into other Asian markets to mitigate trade risks and strengthen Mexico’s horticultural competitiveness.

Flowers Reach Record Prices for Valentine’s Day

Flower prices in Mexico increase by up to 300% during Valentine’s Day, driven by seasonal demand, limited supply and inflation, reinforcing the economic weight of domestic floriculture led by the State of Mexico. Producers plant months in advance to meet demand, with 15.6 million gross of roses, gerberas and gladiolas cultivated for the season, while key markets such as Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey report sharp retail markups. The trend impacts the entire value chain, from rural producers to wholesalers and retailers, while supporting export flows to the United States, Canada and Europe during one of the sector’s most important commercial periods.

World Cup 2026 Could Spike Food Waste in Mexico

The FIFA World Cup 2026 could increase food waste in Mexico by up to 50% during the tournament month, as the country lacks a national prevention strategy to manage the surge in demand from an estimated 5.5 million visitors. Experts warn that without a comprehensive plan similar to the one implemented during the Paris Olympic Games 2024, overproduction, limited shelf life and household overconsumption could drive economic losses and higher greenhouse gas emissions. With more than 30 million tons of food wasted annually, industry leaders and academics are calling for urgent action, better supply chain planning and stronger regulation to prevent environmental and social impacts during one of the most important global events Mexico will host.

Mexico Updates Catch Certificates to Maintain Access to EU Market

Mexican exporters shipping fishery products to the European Union must update their catch certificates following new provisions under Council Regulation (EC) No. 1005/2008, as announced by CONAPESCA. The EU remains a key market for high-value Mexican seafood exports, including shrimp, tuna and Maya octopus, with Spain positioned as the third-largest buyer, while up to 80% of premium species are shipped abroad. Despite strong export performance, domestic seafood consumption in Mexico remains below the global average, prompting authorities and industry groups to promote diversification toward lesser-known and affordable species to balance trade, reduce import dependence and retain greater added value within the country.

Food Prices Outpace Inflation in 2026: INEGI

Food prices in Mexico continued to rise above headline inflation in January 2026, as the basic food basket increased 5.1% annually in urban areas and 3.8% in rural areas, surpassing the 3.8% general inflation rate reported by INEGI. Key contributors included beef steak, pasteurized cow’s milk and food consumed outside the home, with annual increases of up to 17% in essential protein products, intensifying pressure on household budgets and poverty thresholds. The data show that urban consumers face stronger price pressures, particularly in meals eaten outside the home, while rural areas are more affected by staple proteins and soft drinks, reshaping consumption patterns and cost-of-living calculations.