The Phytosanitary and Zoosanitary Regulation and Control Agency (Agrocalidad) and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) have signed a work plan allowing Ecuadorian avocados to be exported to the United States. This agreement was reached in July 2023, following a technical agreement in June. Avocado exports have been a significant source of income for Ecuador, with over 1,300 tons of the product certified for shipment to various destinations in 2022. The opening of the US market will benefit around 11,000 people involved in the avocado production chain in Ecuador.