US pauses government operations in cartel-ridden Mexican state

The U.S. State Department suspended government activities in Michoacan due to threats from cartels, gangs, and criminal organizations, designating it a Level 4 ‘Do Not Travel’ area. This suspension included halting avocado inspections necessary for export. The western state of Michoacan is noted as a leading exporter of avocados but also has a high level of organized crime activity.