Mexico Halts Avocado Exports Due to Seed Moth Infestation

November 2, 2026 · NTV Ekonomi

Mexico has suspended avocado exports after seed moth larvae were detected, leading to the destruction of 52 tons of produce over the weekend.

Seed Moth Threat Halts Shipments

A major agricultural crisis has erupted in Mexico, the world's leading producer and exporter of avocados, with the detection of a dangerous pest in the produce. In Michoacan, considered the heartland of Mexican avocados, seed moth larvae were found in batches prepared for international markets. Authorities immediately decided to halt export shipments to prevent the pest from spreading to other production areas and foreign markets. Michoacan Environment Minister Alejandro Mendez emphasized the resolute implementation of the measures taken:

'Producers want to prevent their crops from being infested by pests.'

Quarantine and Destruction Protocol in Four States

To curb the spread of the pest, an emergency action plan has been activated in a total of four states: Michoacan, Jalisco, Colima, and Nayarit. Under official destruction protocols, producers have been dumping truckloads of produce into pits, incinerating them, and burying them. According to data released by officials, at least 52 tons of avocados were destroyed solely over the weekend. This pest, which directly settles in the branches, trunks, and seeds of avocado trees, has the potential to destroy entire orchards if timely measures are not taken. Local authorities have not yet shared an official estimate of the total economic impact of the crisis.

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