Mexico strengthens the sustainability of its avocado exports with new environmental and labor standards
The Mexican government implemented an inter-institutional framework to ensure that avocado production and export are carried out without deforestation, with fair working conditions and in compliance with the highest phytosanitary standards.
In response to growing global demand for sustainable products, the Mexican government has established new measures to strengthen the environmental and social responsibility of the avocado sector. The agreement, promoted by the Ministries of Agriculture, Environment, and Labor, along with the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), requires that all avocado production and exports come from orchards that are free of deforestation, comply with phytosanitary regulations, and offer decent working conditions.
The instrument seeks to consolidate a sustainable rural development model and reaffirm the country's commitment to environmental and labor justice and the protection of human rights. According to its provisions, only avocado producers who can demonstrate the absence of deforestation since 2019, the corresponding health certification, and the complete exclusion of child labor in their operations will be allowed to export avocados.
Among the most relevant measures is the creation of an Inter-institutional Technical Commission, led by the Ministry of Agriculture, which will oversee the implementation and monitoring of these policies. This commission will meet at least four times a year and coordinate the issuance of supplementary administrative provisions, which will take effect on April 1, 2026. With this, Mexico seeks to ensure that "sustainable avocados" become an internationally recognized mark of trust, aligned with global standards of sustainability and responsible trade.
Source: portalfruticola.com
