In this episode of the MODERN MEXICO PODCAST host Nathaniel Parish Flannery talks to Falko Ernst, a Mexico analyst at the International Crisis Group about the dynamics of organized crime in Michoacan, Mexico. The discussion examines the connections between Mexico's multi-billion dollar avocado sector and the violence that has killed over 10,000 people in Michoacan during the presidency of Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador. Falko gives Lopez Obrador a "D-" grade for his security policies in Michoacan. Nathaniel talks about his field work investigating the role of organized crime in the avocado sector in Tancitaro, Michoacan, which was published in his book SEARCHING FOR MODERN MEXICO. Falko explains that avocados aren't the only product affected by organized crime. Falko mentioned criminal involvement in the production and export of limes, grapefruit, minerals, and berries in Michoacan. “It’s not just about avocados. It’s a huge list. The [organized crime] portfolio includes dozens of items from licit economic activities,” he said. “It’s also been a trend for these groups to channel their money into orchards and become entrepreneurial strongmen on the local level," Falko added.

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