Tariffs and Avocados: A Recipe for Change

Avocados have become a hot topic. Why? Because the U. S. relies heavily on imports, mostly from Mexico. This makes them vulnerable to tariffs. These tariffs are a new challenge for the food supply chain. The U. S. has recently imposed a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico. This includes avocados. Mexico supplies about half of the avocados used in the U. S. This makes it hard to find alternatives. Companies like Sysco, a big food distributor, are feeling the pinch. They can't easily switch suppliers for perishable goods like avocados. They have to either absorb the extra costs or pass them on to consumers. Companies are trying to stock up on non-perishable goods. They're also looking for new suppliers in countries not affected by the tariffs. For example, Westrock Coffee is considering switching from Mexico to Honduras or Guatemala for their coffee beans. But for avocados, there aren't many options. This is because avocados are seasonal and mostly grown in Mexico during the winter. The impact of tariffs isn't just about avocados. It affects other goods too. For instance, Chipotle, a popular restaurant chain, gets half of its avocados from Mexico. They've said they'll absorb the extra costs for now. But if costs keep rising, they might have to raise prices. Target, on the other hand, has already announced that they'll raise prices on fruits and vegetables imported from Mexico. The pandemic has already made companies rethink their supply chains. They've started to diversify their suppliers. This is to avoid shortages and shipping delays. But now, tariffs are forcing them to change their strategies again. They're looking for suppliers closer to home. This is to avoid the uncertainty of international trade. Some companies are more affected than others. Mondelez International, for example, has a factory in Mexico. This factory makes popular snacks like Oreos and Chips Ahoy! They're worried about the impact of tariffs on their profits. Alcohol companies are also feeling the heat. Diageo, which sells tequila and other liquors, could see a big hit to their profits. Sysco, the food distributor, has already changed its supply chain. They now have multiple suppliers for key products. This is to avoid disruptions. But they're still worried about perishable goods. They're trying to find alternatives for their customers. But it's not easy. The pandemic and tariffs have made the food supply chain more complex. Companies have to deal with uncertainty and shocks to the system. This is the new normal for supply chain officers. They have to adapt to climate-related issues and other challenges. This is to keep prices stable and products available.