Avocados, often referred to in the industry as “green gold” are now one of Mexico’s top agricultural commodities, not only due to the demand for them in Mexico’s domestic markets however, they also have their increasing demand on international markets. In the coming this year Mexican Avocado exports appear set to hit a major record: they are achieving a historic increase within the highly fierce US market. This growth is a result of the high quality of the avocado as well as the ideal conditions for growing will be a huge move for farmers looking to expand their reach throughout North America.

It is believed that the State of Mexico is the third largest avocado producer across the nation, and it is the Association of Avocado Producers and Exporters of the State of Mexico (APEAMEX) is headed by Manuel Cerda Morales, which has been operating since the beginning of January, has been in the process of executing the export project to the United States that was launched just four years ago.

The group consists of 15 packers and farmers that cultivate around 1,000 hectares. However within Mexico, in the State of Mexico there are anywhere between 14,000 and 16,000 acres of land that is being planted. In 2024, by the time it is over exports could be between 5,000 and 6,000 tons of fruit, which is being shipped within 500-hectares that are being considered to be certified by SENASICA as well as the USDA. In the near and long time in the near term, there is a chance that State of Mexico expects avocado exports coming from its previously designated free zones to grow up to 30,000-35,000 tons, which is a major success for the state that has worked hard to get into in the U.S. market. The State of Mexico has been participating as the only time at the Global Fresh Produce & Floral Show (IFPA) in Atlanta, Georgia, where the state has met directly with North American customers.

“We have exported before into Europe, Canada and Asia However, this will be our first year on our first year in the U.S. market,” Cerda Morales says. Cerda Morales. Cerda Morales expects 300-500 containers will be delivered during the initial year of exports in the United States, and between 1500 to 2,000 containers over the course of two years, bringing the competition of Mexican avocados within the region up to levels never before seen.

It is in compliance with international standard of quality, which permits it to receive important certifications like GlobalG.A.P., SRRC and SMETA which are essential for competing in the highly competitive market. “We are located at the same elevation that Michoacan and have volcanic soil which offers us a distinct advantage when it comes to the fertility of our soil and its ability to produce year-round,” says the APEAMEX chief executive.

One of the major challenges encountered by the organization is the shortage of packers who are certified in Mexico. State of Mexico, which requires them to ship the fruits to Michoacan for packing prior to export. But, Cerda Morales is confident that the problem will be solved, which will allow the region to improve its logistics activities.

“Mexico is the world’s leader in exports and production of avocados. Despite the fact that certain regions are impacted by logistics and security issues, APEAMEX has managed to create a robust infrastructure that can assure the smooth transportation of its goods. The biggest challenge facing this U.S. market is the concurrence with Peru and Peru exports large quantities of avocados. But the group has an advantage by being at the marketplace in December when the season for exports hasn’t been officially launched within Peru,” says Cerda Morales.

“Avocados are Mexico’s most important export products and their effect on economic growth is vital. Additionally, prices currently in the international market, which vary between 50-55 Mexican pesos for a kilo in bigger dimensions, are extremely favorable for the producers despite the increased cost of inputs caused by fluctuations in exchange rates,” says Cerda Morales.

More information is available here:

Manuel Cerda Morales

APEAMEX

Tel. : +52 452 526 1156

[email protected]

www.apeamex.mx