Key Mexican avocado association signs zero-deforestation deal

The Avocado Producers, Packers, and Exporters Association of Mexico (APEAM) has signed a voluntary self-regulation agreement with Mexico’s Environment Ministry and its enforcement agency. The commitment aims to ensure that avocados produced for export comply with forestry and environmental laws, improving product traceability and transparency.

The move stems from a federal mandate published last October requiring zero deforestation in agricultural exports, and builds on a broader strategic framework called the "Path to Sustainability," launched by the Avocado Institute of Mexico in April 2025. 

Under the new framework, APEAM will oversee compliance tied to the operational work plan governing orchards, packinghouses, inspections, logistics, and traceability for Hass avocado shipments to the United States and the world.

Traceability and compliance take root in deforestation efforts

The program introduces mechanisms to identify orchards with potential forest impacts, support legal regularization, and, where required, apply remediation measures in accordance with government-defined technical criteria.

APEAM will coordinate with Mexico’s environmental authorities to implement these measures, positioning the organization as a governance body that complements—but does not replace—government oversight, the association noted. 

The group said the model aims to strengthen enforcement capacity, reduce environmental risk, and improve visibility across one of Mexico’s most valuable agri-food export chains.

During the signing, Environment Minister Alicia Bárcena Ibarra recognized APEAM’s role in advancing international standards and sustainability initiatives within the avocado sector.

APEAM President Raúl Martínez Pulido said the agreement reflects long-term industry evolution rather than a short-term response.

“This Zero Deforestation Agreement is neither a symbolic gesture nor a short-term response; it is the natural evolution of a model that the sector has built over nearly three decades, based on clear rules and shared responsibility,” said Martínez Pulido.

Mexico remains the leading supplier of avocados to the US market.

*All images courtesy of APEAM. 

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