Mexican Cartels Exert Significant Control Over Michoacán's Avocado Industry

MEXICO CITY – Mexican cartels have expanded their illicit operations to include significant control over the avocado industry, particularly in the state of Michoacán, a claim highlighted in a recent social media post by T Wolf 🌁. The tweet asserted, "> The cartels have cornered three markets: 1. Drugs 2. Trafficking 3. Avocados. I'm not even joking." This statement underscores a growing concern among authorities and consumers regarding the influence of organized crime on agricultural exports.

For years, criminal organizations, including the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) and splinter groups from the Knights Templar, have infiltrated Michoacán's lucrative avocado production. This region is the world's leading exporter of avocados, often referred to as "green gold" due to their high value. The cartels leverage their power to extort farmers and packers, demanding protection payments and imposing fees on every stage of the supply chain, from cultivation to export.

The methods employed by these groups include intimidation, violence, and even direct control over orchards and packing facilities. Farmers who resist paying "protection money" face threats, kidnappings, or even death, leading many to comply out of fear. This pervasive control has led to concerns about "blood avocados," referring to the violence and illicit profits tied to their production.

Beyond avocados, these cartels maintain their traditional strongholds in drug trafficking, controlling routes and production of various illicit substances. They are also heavily involved in human trafficking, exploiting vulnerable migrants and engaging in forced labor and sexual exploitation. These activities form a multi-faceted criminal enterprise that generates billions of dollars annually.

Despite efforts by Mexican authorities to combat cartel influence, the deep-rooted corruption and economic power of these groups present significant challenges. The ongoing struggle for territorial control and illicit revenue continues to destabilize regions like Michoacán, impacting local communities and the global supply chain of key agricultural products.