In recent years, US avocado imports have reached historic highs, fueled by rising consumer demand, health trends, and diverse culinary applications. Whether it’s guacamole for game day or avocado toast for breakfast, Americans are consuming more avocados than ever before. In 2024, the U.S. imported $3.87 billion worth of avocados, marking a 26% year-over-year increase and solidifying its position as the world’s largest avocado importer.
In this guest post, we’ll explore key trends, top import sources, major U.S. importers, and the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of the avocado trade.
📈 Record-Breaking US Avocado Imports in 2024
Avocado demand in the U.S. continues to surge. In 2024, the country imported over 1.21 million metric tons of avocados, largely driven by health-conscious consumers and booming popularity of plant-based diets. This trend is projected to continue into 2025, with per capita consumption now averaging 9 lbs per year—up from less than 1 lb in the 1970s.
🌍 Where Does the US Import Avocados From?
US avocado imports are dominated by Mexico, but several other nations have emerged as important players. Here’s a snapshot of the top supplying countries in 2024–25:
| Country | Import Value | Volume (Metric Tons) |
|---|---|---|
| Mexico | $3.49 billion | 1.06 million |
| Peru | $191.78 million | 65,890 |
| Colombia | $98.51 million | 42,480 |
| Dominican Republic | $70.28 million | 36,820 |
| Chile | $21.32 million | 5,560 |
| New Zealand | $317,000 | 91 |
| Mongolia | $200,000 | 74 |
| Jamaica | $124,000 | 51 |
Mexico accounts for 90% of total US avocado imports, with year-round supply made possible via efficient cross-border trade through ports like Pharr and Laredo, TX.
🏢 Top US Avocado Importers
If you’re a business looking to enter or expand in the avocado market, knowing the key importers is crucial. Here are the top avocado importers in the US for 2024–25:
| Rank | Company | Import Value | Top Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mission Produce Inc. | $2 billion | Mexico, Peru, Chile |
| 2 | Calavo Growers | $1.7 billion | Mexico, Chile, Colombia |
| 3 | West Pak Avocado | $600 million | Mexico, Peru |
| 4 | Index Fresh | $400 million | Mexico, Colombia |
| 5 | Del Rey Avocado | $300 million | Mexico |
To get a customized list of avocado importers in the US, connect with us at info@tradeimex.in and request our verified US Avocado Importers Database.
🔍 Types of Avocado Imports (by HS Code)
| Type | HS Code | Form | Import Value | Market Share |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh or dried avocados | 08044000 | Whole, mainly Hass | $3.74 billion | 96.6% |
| Frozen avocados | 0811908080 | IQF slices, cubes | $65 million | 1.7% |
| Preserved/Processed forms | 2008999090 | Guacamole, purées | $55 million | 1.4% |
🚨 Trade Challenges: Security, Biosecurity & Tariffs
In 2024, USDA inspections in Michoacán, Mexico, were suspended due to security threats, causing temporary shipment halts. Later that year, USDA withdrew inspectors amid cartel-related risks. These disruptions raised fears about potential avocado shortages and price spikes in early 2025.
Simultaneously, tariff threats (up to 25%) and environmental activism against deforestation linked to avocado farming have pressured US importers to consider more ethical and diversified sourcing.
📊 Historical Import Trends (2014–2025 Q1)
| Year | Import Value ($) |
|---|---|
| 2014 | $1.63 billion |
| 2017 | $2.72 billion |
| 2021 | $3.13 billion |
| 2023 | $3.08 billion |
| 2024 | $3.87 billion |
| 2025 Q1 | $1.32 billion |
Average price in 2024: $1.43/lb, up from $1.10/lb in 2023.
🔮 What Lies Ahead in 2025?
- Mexico is expected to grow avocado shipments to the U.S. by 5%, reaching 1.34 million tons.
- Colombia and Peru will continue to close seasonal gaps, especially during Mexico’s off-season.
- US domestic production is up by 53% (197,070 tons in 2024), but still covers less than 6% of national demand.
✅ Final Takeaways
The story of US avocado imports is one of rapid growth, cross-border collaboration, and evolving challenges. As demand remains strong and consumers grow more conscious of sourcing ethics and biosecurity, importers and stakeholders must balance cost, sustainability, and supply reliability.
Want to learn more about US avocado imports data by country, company, or HS code?
📩 Contact us today at info@tradeimex.in for exclusive access to live US avocado trade data and importer profiles.
