Key Takeaways:
- Mexican avocado industry becomes the first agricultural sector to sign a binding federal conservation agreement.
- Agreement commits all produce exports to be deforestation-free by 2030.
- Initiative includes accountability, monitoring, and compliance mechanisms under Mexican environmental law.
- Non-compliant produce will be barred from export beginning January 2026.
- Industry’s Path to Sustainability plan emphasizes forest, water, and biodiversity protection.
Leading Mexico’s Path to Deforestation-Free Exports
The Mexican avocado industry announced it has entered into a binding conservation agreement with the federal government, making it the first agricultural sector in the country to commit to ensuring all produce exports will be deforestation-free by 2030.
“It’s an honor for Mexican Avocados to lead the nation in this conservation agreement,” said Ramon Paz-Vega, Strategic Consultant for the Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association. “Our industry is spearheading Mexico’s zero-deforestation goals thanks to our network of over 35,000 growers and more than 90 packers, who consistently work to conserve the Avocado Landscape for future generations.”
Accountability and Compliance Mechanisms
The agreement establishes accountability and monitoring measures to ensure compliance. It also provides pathways for regularization and environmental compensation, in line with Mexican environmental law, allowing eligible orchards to maintain global market access.
Beginning in January 2026, produce that fails to meet deforestation-free standards will not qualify for export.
“We appreciate the positive dialogue and collaboration with the federal government,” said Enrique Audifred, Vice President of Sustainability for the Association of Avocado Exporting Producers and Packers of Mexico. “This conservation agreement reflects our shared goal to restore and preserve Mexico’s forests in action.”
Mexico’s Industry Readiness and Economic Impact
At least 85 percent of Mexico’s more than 54,000 avocado orchards are expected to qualify under the agreement in the first year. The sector represents a major economic driver, supporting 78,000 direct jobs in Mexico and more than 42,000 jobs in the United States.
The avocado industry’s conservation efforts are expected to strengthen supply chain resilience, protect natural resources, and support long-term community wellbeing.
Path to Sustainability Initiative
The agreement forms part of the broader Avocado Institute’s Path to Sustainability, launched earlier this year. The initiative unites growers, packers, importers, and exporters under a framework of actionable commitments, including zero deforestation, water stewardship, ecological connectivity, and biodiversity protection.
Industry leaders view the agreement as both an environmental and economic milestone, positioning Mexican avocados as a model for sustainable agriculture within Mexico and internationally.
