MEXICO

Feedback from the Trade on Their Plans and Interest in the USA Pear Season:

Importers are interested in continuing to import USA Pears, but volumes will depend on two factors: first is the price at origin - pears from other countries have a lower import price; second is the quality - importers have reported Northwest pears are beginning to show quality problems including russeting, bruising, and yellow skin color. Any quality issues make it difficult to sell the product, especially to clients located in other states that prefer pears from Argentina which offers a longer shelf-life.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

Currently, no freight or logistics challenges have been reported that affect the import process for USA Pears. In May, there was a strike at Manzanillo port that affected the arrival and clearance of ships coming from Chile and Argentina, which affected fresh fruits coming from those countries and slowed down their arrival to the wholesale markets.

Opportunities in Your Market for Specific Varieties, Sizes, and Grades:

Importers reported that their consumers demand USA Pears, but due to the availability of other pear origins, price will be a key factor to continue importing Northwest pears. Mexico can handle different sizes and quality grades, but it is a price sensitive market.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

Pears from Argentina reported 23% pear market share at wholesale, 6% at supermarket stores and 10% at traditional channels. Quality was good and good sales were reported; it is expected that volumes will increase for the next month. Pears from Chile reported 10% pear market share at wholesale, 37% in supermarket stores, and 9% at traditional channels. Quality and sales were reported as good and it is expected that volumes will increase for the upcoming period. Pears from China reported 1% pear market share at wholesale, 8% in retail stores, and 1% at traditional channels; quality was good but low sales due to price.

Political or Economic Issues Impacting Imports, Retail, or Consumer Behavior:

The exchange rate has been steady, which helped importers and retailers to avoid any price changes and offer an steady price for end consumers. One aspect that could affect consumer purchasing power could be the recent bill that was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, which includes a 3.5% tax on remittance transfers by anyone who is not an American citizen or national.

Other Brief Comments:

On May 12, 2025, the Federal Government announced the renewal of the Package against Inflation and Famine (PACIC) to maintain the cost of 24 products in the basic basket, a measure that seeks to help households in Mexico and reduce the inflation rate. The agreement was made between the Government, agricultural producers and supermarket chains that seeks to stop the increase in prices of essential products. As part of the agreement, it was established that the maximum price of the basic basket of 24 products will remain at $910 pesos for the next six months.