Avocado market in Mexico - statistics & facts
Avocado is a key ingredient in Mexican cuisine. There are several varieties grown in Mexico, including the popular hass, as well as bacon, fuerte, pinkerton, and reed, among others. All vary in terms of texture and taste, and so they can be used in numerous ways and dishes. Avocados, called aguacates in Mexican Spanish, are a staple in all sorts of households, street food markets, diners, and restaurants. In recent years, Mexican avocados have also gained huge popularity around the world, and especially in the United States. Guacamole has become a part of the snack option during sporting events, and avocado’s reputation as a superfood has ensured its presence in many health-oriented meal plans.
The price of avocados increased considerably between 2021 and 2022, and although prices dropped in 2023, in February 2024, avocados were still about 13 percent more expensive than in the same month of the previous year. These changes are due to several factors such as an increase in demand for exports, general inflation, and organized crime in the key producing regions. Other problems associated with the avocado industry include deforestation and massive fires to plant more avocado trees, and the water usage needed for irrigation.
Production and area
Mexico is the largest producer of avocados worldwide. In 2022, the production output surpassed 2.5 million metric tons, representing an increase of 92 percent since 2012. About 73 percent of all avocados produced in Mexico are produced in the western state of Michoacán, while another 12 percent is produced in Jalisco. That year, the area planted with avocados reached over 252 thousand hectares, and the harvested area was of about 236 thousand hectares.Exports
The global popularity of avocados, mostly of the hass variety, has meant an increase in exports. It is exported either whole, just the pulp, or as ready-made guacamole. In 2023, Mexico exported over 1.2 million metric tons of avocados (around 48 percent of the avocados produced). The leading country of destination is the United States, which receives around 86 percent of the exports, followed by Canada, which is the destination for seven percent of all avocado exports from Mexico.Consumption, prices, and industry challenges
From guacamole to cold avocado soup, to the enchiladas, avocado is consumed widely and in various dishes. Around 10.7 kilograms of avocado were consumed per capita in Mexico in 2022, and the country’s production is enough to cover domestic demand in its entirety.The price of avocados increased considerably between 2021 and 2022, and although prices dropped in 2023, in February 2024, avocados were still about 13 percent more expensive than in the same month of the previous year. These changes are due to several factors such as an increase in demand for exports, general inflation, and organized crime in the key producing regions. Other problems associated with the avocado industry include deforestation and massive fires to plant more avocado trees, and the water usage needed for irrigation.
