Introduction to the Michoacán Model and its National Expansion
On August 1, 2025, in Morelia, Michoacán, Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla expressed his delight that the Proforest Avocado model, aimed at combating deforestation and promoting environmentally-friendly avocado cultivation practices, will be replicated nationwide. This announcement was made by President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo during the Conference of the People.
The Significance of the Michoacán Model
Governor Ramírez Bedolla emphasized that this development is a crucial step for the nation, as it will instill confidence in end consumers in the United States and Canada. The model ensures that exported avocados do not originate from illegal orchards, but instead supports the preservation of forests and natural resources.
President Sheinbaum Pardo’s Announcement
During her press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo highlighted that Michoacán has a certification program for avocado packing facilities and orchards, which will now be adopted by the federal government. This certification aims to prevent deforestation and protect Michoacán’s forests from the impact of avocado exports, which generate approximately 4 billion dollars annually for Mexico’s export to the United States.
Federal Regulations and Benefits
Sheinbaum Pardo also mentioned that the federal government intends to issue regulations to further safeguard Michoacán’s forests from the avocado export industry. These measures are not only beneficial for Mexico but also serve the country’s interests, even without direct pressure from the United States.
Michoacán’s Voluntary Certifications
By May of this year, 20 voluntary certifications for avocado packing facilities and orchards in Michoacán had been obtained through the Proforest Avocado model. This accounts for 67% of Michoacán’s avocado exports to the United States, as these facilities handle around 650,000 tons of avocados for export.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Proforest Avocado model? It’s a Michoacán-based certification program promoting sustainable avocado cultivation practices and combating deforestation.
- Why is the model being nationalized? To ensure environmentally-friendly avocado exports, build consumer confidence in the US and Canada, and protect Michoacán’s forests.
- What is the significance of these certifications for Mexico? The federal government aims to safeguard Michoacán’s forests from the avocado export industry’s impact, benefiting Mexico without direct pressure from the United States.
- How many Michoacán avocado facilities are certified? By May 2025, 20 packing facilities and orchards in Michoacán had voluntarily obtained the Proforest Avocado certification, accounting for 67% of the state’s avocado exports to the US.
