In Mexico, organized crime groups are increasingly interfering in the cultivation of avocados and limes, using extortion schemes and terrorizing local farmers. This situation has already led to significant price increases for these fruits both domestically and in international markets.
This is reported by Finway
Cartels Diversify Their Activities
In recent years, the activities of Mexican drug cartels have extended far beyond the drug trade. They have expanded their influence by engaging in human trafficking, stealing crude oil, and mass extortion from the local population. Criminals are particularly interested in avocado and lime producers—key export products of the country.
Known as “cobros de piso” (“protection payments” or “rent payments”), such schemes force not only farmers but also shop owners and truck drivers to pay. This leads to increased prices for end products and reduced profits for workers.
Criminals in Mexico “protect” the cultivation of fruits such as limes and avocados.
Political Pressure and New Laws
Amid rising demand for avocados in the U.S., the city of Uruapan, a major trading hub for this fruit, has become a center of confrontation. Local mayor Carlos Manso actively advocated for decisive action against the cartels, urging the police to take a tough stance. However, this led to his tragic death—on November 1, the official was fatally shot at a public event where he attended with his son.
Last year, under the influence of U.S. President Donald Trump, who demanded decisive actions from Mexico to stop the flow of fentanyl and migrants, President Claudia Sheinbaum intensified the fight against organized crime. Measures included deploying troops to border towns, dismantling drug labs, combating human trafficking, and transferring criminal leaders to U.S. jurisdiction. However, the authorities’ main focus was not on combating extortion but on issues that concern the American government.
In response to the spread of extortion in Mexico, a new law was passed that increases prison sentences for these crimes to 42 years. At the same time, experts emphasize that without extensive work by law enforcement, this law will have limited effect.
Mexico remains the largest producer of avocados in the world and is among the leaders in lime production, making the situation in the market even more significant for the global economy.