In a recent development, the United States has halted inspections of avocados and mangoes from Michoacán state in Mexico. This decision comes after two employees of the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service were attacked and detained while carrying out inspections on avocados in the region.

According to U.S. officials, the USDA workers have now been released, but no further details about the incident have been provided. As a result, the inspections will remain suspended until the safety concerns have been resolved.

Mexican authorities, in coordination with U.S. officials, are actively working to address the situation and ensure the safety of individuals involved. While the pause in inspections does not completely block Mexican exports, it may cause some disruptions. However, avocados and mangoes that are already in transit will not be affected by the suspension, as clarified by U.S. ambassador Ken Salazar in a statement.

Michoacán state, which is a major exporter of avocados and accounts for the majority of Mexico's avocado production, has been plagued by violent incidents. The area has been witnessing clashes between the Jalisco New Generation cartel and the local gang known as the Viagras.

Due to concerns surrounding crime and kidnapping, the U.S. State Department issued a Level 4 travel advisory for Michoacán last week, urging Americans to avoid travel to the state.

Taking the situation seriously, U.S. ambassador Ken Salazar has announced that he will travel to Mexico next week to meet with Michoacán Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla. The aim of the meeting is to address security concerns and discuss potential solutions to the ongoing issues.

In the past, Michoacán has experienced instances of violence, including the discovery of 18 bodies in May, with messages addressed to a criminal group found on nine of them. Additionally, in March, a police officer was reportedly beheaded, and her two bodyguards were killed in an attack on a highway.

It is important to note that just two years ago, the U.S. temporarily banned avocado imports from Mexico following threats made to a USDA inspector.

The situation in Michoacán remains a cause for concern, and both Mexican and U.S. officials continue to work towards finding solutions to ensure the safety and security of individuals involved in avocado and mango trade between the two countries.