Political Tensions Loom Over Avocado Industry

Specialists noted that the avocado industry could be affected by the current political scenario in Mexico and the United States. Meanwhile, SADER recognized the pork industry's contributions to food security. 

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Avocado Industry Faces Challenges Amid Election Season

The avocado industry in Mexico is facing uncertainty due to political tensions in both Mexico and the United States, with concerns raised about the impact of campaign promises on exports such as tomatoes and avocados. Recent revelations about illegal avocado orchards in Michoacan underscore the need for heightened vigilance in trade, with 817 illegal orchards detected through satellite surveillance. Amid declining sales in the United States, experts suggest a cautious approach, noting challenges including rising inflation, increased operating costs, and an unfavorable exchange rate, which are squeezing profit margins for exporters.

Mexico's Pork Industry Recognized for Food Security Efforts

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development recognized the pork industry's contributions to food security and global competitiveness, emphasizing collaboration in implementing sanitary measures against African Swine Fever (ASF) to protect Mexico's 20-million swine population. The unveiling of the Strategic Vision of the Mexican Pork Industry 2020-2035 by OPORMEX aimed to unite producers for genetic improvement and sustainability, supported by stakeholders like the National Agricultural Council (CNA) and the Mexican Institute of Pork Farming (IMP).

Agri-Food Supply Chain Thrives at Expo ANTAD 2024

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development underscored the vital role of the supply chain and retail sector in the agri-food industry, particularly highlighted during the Expo ANTAD 2024 inauguration. SADER emphasized the importance of efficient commercialization processes, including agreements promoting certified agricultural companies' integration into the National Association of Supermarkets and Department Stores (ANTAD), benefiting from commercial links with over 47,000 stores in Mexico. Expo ANTAD, Latin America's benchmark event for business and commercial relationships, saw a significant increase in total store sales in February 2024, contributing to national economic growth and job creation, noted the Business Coordinating Council (CCE).

SADER Recognizes Women’s Crucial Role in Agriculture

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development held a week-long event titled "In agriculture, we champion women's rights," recognizing rural women's significant role in ensuring timely food supply. Activities aligned with International Women's Day underscored rural women's influence as agents of change in agriculture, livestock, and aquaculture sectors. With approximately one million women engaged in agriculture, their contributions have reshaped food production through leveraging information, training, and technology, influencing policy-making for economic and social development in the agricultural sector.

Agri-Food Exports Kick Off the Year With Record High

In January 2024, Mexico's agricultural and agro-industrial exports continued their growth momentum from 2023, marking a 5.82% increase compared to the same month last year, reaching a record high of US$4.1 billion, the best January since records began. Agricultural imports totaled US$3.91 billion, resulting in Mexico's trade with other nations totaling US$8.09 billion in January, with a surplus of US$275 million in the agricultural and agro-industrial balance, representing a 42.09% increase compared to January 2023. Key export growth areas included chocolate, grapes, coffee preparations, beer, and soft drinks, with top exports including beer, avocado, tequila/mezcal, fresh tomatoes, and strawberries/raspberries.