McAllen occupies a strategic position on the border between Mexico and the United States, facilitating the efficient transportation of fresh products from Mexico to the US market. The city also stands out for its highly developed transportation infrastructure, streamlining the movement of goods, especially perishable products like fruits and vegetables.
Among the variety of fruits and vegetables crossing the border of McAllen daily, avocados, tomatoes, lemons, and broccoli stand out.
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Fruits and vegetables that cross McAllen
MEXICAN AVOCADO
This fruit has experienced a significant increase in demand in the US market in recent years. Its versatility and nutritional benefits make it an essential component in the diet of many Hispanic households.
During 2022, Mexico sent a total of 1,320 million pounds of avocados to the United States through the McAllen border. However, throughout 2023, this figure experienced a notable increase, reaching a total of 1,360 million pounds, representing a 2.7% increase. This increase marked a significant milestone, being the highest figure recorded in recent years.
TOMATO
It frequently plays a prominent role in culinary traditions. Its presence in Hispanic cuisine reflects the richness of cultural heritage and the continuity of family recipes. This versatile ingredient is used in a variety of traditional dishes, from sauces and stews to salads and fillings.
Tomato exports through the McAllen border remain steady throughout the year. However, in late 2023, the availability of Roma tomatoes was affected by high temperatures and drought that impacted the Sinaloa region, one of the main Mexican producing regions. This phenomenon was reflected in border prices, reaching historic levels in December. Maximum prices exceeded $40, compared to the maximum recorded in 2022, which was $30.
LEMON
It is another essential product in Hispanic cuisine, used in refreshing beverages such as lemonades, aguas frescas, and cocktails, as well as an essential component in stews, salads, and, of course, a variety of home remedies.
In 2022, Mexico exported 990 million pounds of lemons to the US through the McAllen border. However, throughout 2023, this figure experienced a notable increase, reaching a total of 1.07 billion pounds, representing a significant 8.3% increase. This growth remained steady throughout 2023 and marked the highest export volume in the last ten years.
Given the high transit volume at the McAllen border, we observe a continuous flow of refrigerated trucks departing to various parts of the US constantly. This facilitates a more agile and efficient delivery of products to their final destinations.
Finally, throughout 2023, avocado transportation prices from South Texas to New York remained in the range of $4,000 to $7,800. Heading to Chicago, costs ranged from $2,600 to $5,500, while towards Los Angeles varied from $2,400 to $5,400.
It is important to note that a standard avocado truck usually carries around 1,600 boxes, each weighing 25 pounds.
Regarding the cost per box, avocado transportation to New York fluctuated between $2.50 and $4.80, depending on the season. In the case of shipments to Los Angeles, costs remained in the range of $1.5 to $3.3.
The McAllen crossing assumes exceptional relevance.
Its strategic position, efficient logistics and customs infrastructure, as well as its ability to facilitate the rapid and secure flow of fresh fruits and vegetables from Mexico to the United States, allow Hispanic households to enjoy many favorite agricultural products all year round. Additionally, it enables new generations to grow up with the recipes that their relatives enjoyed in their places of origin.