Soccer Scandals, Cargo Wars & Avocados Flying South

Mexico Decoded’s weekly briefing makes sense of the news that matters.

1. Mexican Avocados Are Flying South

Brazil just approved sanitary protocols to start importing Mexican avocados, unlocking a market of over 200 million people.

Decoding it:
The U.S. buys 87% of Mexico’s avocado exports. Brazil, despite being nearly two-thirds its size, imported none. The best avocado toast may soon be in Rio, not LA.

2. U.S. Pressures Mexico Over Cargo Airport Access

Washington is threatening sanctions and a downgrade to Mexico’s aviation safety rating unless U.S. cargo carriers can operate at Mexico City’s main airport, currently closed to cargo flights.

Decoding it:
Former president, and Sheinbaum’s mentor, built a new airport that’s struggled to attract passengers. Pushing cargo flights there is key to keeping it afloat —and avoiding a political embarrassment for the ruling party.

3. Scandal Erupts Around President’s Party Whip in Senate

A new investigation found that a former top security official in the southern state of Tabasco, who worked under Adán Augusto López, now the ruling party’s leader in the Senate, was head of a criminal group.

Decoding it:
This could be Sheinbaum’s chance to cut down Adán Augusto —a party heavyweight who’s played against her before. Behind the scenes, Morena is far less united than it claims to be.

4. Repatriations Surge Under Trump

Nearly 75,000 Mexicans have returned since Trump ramped up immigration enforcement. Mexico is offering support hoping the influx will boost its domestic economy.

Decoding it:
Trump wants fewer migrants—but his crackdown may send tens of thousands of working-age Mexicans back home. Ironically, that could help Mexico. Migration in reverse.

5. “Chicharito” Puts His Foot in His Mouth

Mexico’s star soccer player “Chicharito” posted a video ranting that women want providers but reject being housewives, and that they should be “led” by men.

Decoding it:
The internet dragged him. Even the president joined the pile-on. Mexico may have a madam president, but some men still think it’s 1950.