Mission Produce and Westfalia Fruit have both declared force majeure as the Mexican avocado shortage escalates beyond what either company can manage through normal sourcing channels. Alternative fruit from Peru, California, and Colombia is trickling in to cover orders, but volumes are nowhere near enough to fill the gap left by Mexico.
This is a significant escalation from the supply tightness reported in recent weeks. Force majeure declarations signal that contractual obligations can't be met — meaning buyers and retailers holding supply agreements should expect disruptions, substitutions, or outright shortfalls. Mexico is the dominant source of avocados for North America, and no other origin can realistically bridge the gap at this scale or price point.
Watch for pricing to push well past the $43/carton levels already reported. If you're a buyer with summer promotions locked in, now is the time to have a serious conversation with your supplier about contingency plans.