Jalisco, Mexico - U.S. Department of Agriculture Under Secretary Edward Avalos visited the state of Jalisco, Mexico, late last month to announce that the state is now certified to ship avocados to the United States.

Jalisco joins the neighboring state of Michoacán as an authorized avocado supplier to the U.S. market. Mexico's export program is managed by the Producers and Packers of Avocados from Michoacan Association (APEAM) in partnership with the USDA and SAGARPA, Mexico's agriculture ministry.

Historically, the state of Michoacán has produced all Mexican avocados exported to the United States, which totaled nearly 1.8 billion pounds in 2015 and represents over 75 percent of the avocados consumed annually in the US. The total volume from Jalisco is expected to be between 100-110 million pounds for the 2016-2017 season, with the first shipments likely beginning in July. Jalisco will have about 15,000 acres certified for export.

U.S. demand for avocados has more than doubled in the last 10 years and now exceeds 2 billion pounds per year. The harvesting season for Jalisco is complementary to the year-round supply from Michoacán. Jalisco's volume will augment traditionally lighter months in Mexico's overall supply and will bolster its ability to provide strong, steady volumes to the U.S. market all year long.

"We are pleased that Jalisco is now part of APEAM's export program to the U.S. There is decades of experience behind avocado production and packing in Jalisco, which will continue to benefit our industry partners and consumers," APEAM Chairman Antonio Villaseñor said in a press release.

Mexico is the largest avocado producer in the world and the only place where avocados are available year-round, thanks to a blooming season that lasts the entire year.

Michael Browne, chairman of Avocados From Mexico, added in the press release, "The Avocados From Mexico marketing team has worked tirelessly to build sustainable demand across the United States. The news from USDA to expand acceptable growing regions will help to assure year-round supply of fresh avocados from multiple states in Mexico to further support future demand and category growth."