ABSTRACT
The avocado is native to Mexico, Central America and northern South America. Its commercial development began in California and Florida in 1932 and then spread to Chile, Brazil, South Africa, and more recently Israel and Peru. Avocado packaging firms are associated in different groups, including the Michoacan Avocado Packers and Traders Union (UDECAM); and the Periban Avocado Packers Union (UEAP). The Michoacan Avocado Producers and Exporters Association (APEAM) is the most important organization. Its members are producers and exporters who have been certified by United States (US) authorities. APEAM works not only to coordinate avocado exports to the United States, but also as a negotiation platform between producers and exporters in compliance with export policies and programmes. The vegetable health local committees (VHLCs) have become the most important organizations in the avocado plantation sector because they are involved in issuing phytosanitary certificates and legal permits for transporting the fruit from the plantations to national and international markets.
