Biosecurity Gains, Avocado Boom, and Trade Shifts

Mexico has reported a 57% drop in screwworm cases, though experts stress the need for proactive, long-term biosecurity measures. Meanwhile, avocado prices have fallen nearly 27% in the domestic market, even as exports to the United States are set to hit record levels ahead of the Super Bowl.

This is the Week in Agribusiness and Food!

Planned Biosecurity Key for Sustained Screwworm Control: Experts

Mexico’s Ministry of Agriculture (SADER) reported a 57% reduction in active cases of the new world screwworm, driven by timely sanitary protocols and favorable climate conditions, though authorities and industry experts warn the pest has not been eradicated. MSD Salud Animal and livestock specialists stress that biosecurity must be continuous, highlighting the need for wound treatment, protection of newborn calves, long-acting systemic treatments, and permanent field surveillance to prevent a resurgence during the rainy season.

Avocado Prices Fall in Mexico as Exports Hit Record Highs

Avocado prices in Mexico City have fallen nearly 27% over the past year, averaging MX$55/kg, driven by increased domestic supply due to favorable weather, higher harvest volumes, and a better balance between exports and the local market. At the same time, exports to the United States are reaching record levels ahead of the Super Bowl, with Mexico projected to ship 127,000t, an 11% year-on-year increase, mainly from Michoacán and Jalisco, reinforcing Mexico’s leadership despite intense competition from Peru, Colombia, and California.

Mexico Tomato Exports to Canada Rise After US Antidumping Tariff

Mexican tomato exports to Canada surged 134% in 2025 as producers redirected shipments after the United States imposed antidumping tariffs, positioning Canada as a key alternative market amid rising trade pressure. The increase was concentrated in the months following the July tariff, while exports to the US fell by about 16%, exposing the risks of Mexico’s heavy dependence on a single market for a US$3 billion export industry. 

Mezcal Industry Pushes for IEPS Reform Amid Fiscal Pressure

Mexico’s mezcal industry is facing mounting pressure in 2026 due to a heavy tax burden, declining domestic consumption, and growing competition from other alcoholic beverages, with producers pointing to the 53% IEPS tax as a major barrier to growth. Industry leaders and lawmakers are pushing to reform the tax framework through initiatives such as Moderniza IEPS and a legislative proposal to replace the ad valorem model with an ad quantum system and introduce differentiated rates for artisanal and Denomination of Origin spirits.

Mexico Leads Latin America in AgriFood Tech Investment

Mexico has become the leading destination for private ag-tech investment in Latin America, positioning itself as a regional hub for agricultural transformation, technological integration, and sustainable food systems. Investment is increasingly focused on upstream technologies such as biotechnology, precision fermentation, automation, traceability, and AI-driven solutions that align with ESG criteria and support nearshoring and export competitiveness.

Syngenta, IECA Expand Sustainable Agriculture Training in Mexico

Syngenta launched a nationwide online training program on sustainable agriculture in partnership with Guanajuato’s State Training Institute (IECA), offering 300 free scholarships through the #PROAgricultor platform to strengthen productivity and professionalization across the agrifood sector. The program covers nine specialized modules on regenerative agriculture, soil health, integrated pest management, certifications, and finance, and is part of a broader public–private collaboration aimed at building a competitive, sustainable agricultural ecosystem.