Mexico declares 93% of avocado-growing area free of major pests

Mexico has certified 243,926 hectares of avocado production areas as free from major pests that attack the fruit's seed and tree branches. This represents 93% of the country's avocado-growing area, according to the Ministry of Agriculture.

Protection for growers

More than 94,000 small and medium-sized avocado producers benefit from the programme.

So far, 103 municipalities and 12 agricultural zones have received pest-free recognition. The certification covers several species of seed and branch borers, whose larvae damage avocado trees and fruit.

Authorities warn that uncontrolled infestations can cause production losses of up to 90% in affected orchards.

Export benefits

Pest-free certification helps growers reduce treatment costs and meet the sanitary requirements of international buyers.

Mexico produces almost 3 million tonnes of avocados annually. Maintaining pest-free production zones is important for protecting this supply and keeping export markets open.

The country's plant health authority, Senasica, works with producers and regional officials to monitor pests and maintain the certification status of eligible areas.

source and photo: gob.mx