Mexico Says “No Entrada” to U.S. Potato Growers

Less than a month after the Mexican government opened its entire country to U.S. potato imports, the country did an about face and closed its borders indefinitely to all U.S. fresh potatoes imports.  Borders were closed as a result of complaints received from a group of local growers who cited phytosanitary concerns.  The unexpected action halts the issuance of phytosanitary certificates for potato exports to Mexico.  This has also prevented shipments in transit from entering Mexico and are being held at the border.

The United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is expected to be in Mexico next week to better understand details of these actions.

We will provide further information in Spotlight when it is made available.