Mexico deploys nearly 700 soldiers to protect lime growers from cartels

Mexico's drug cartel problem is getting worse and it's now impacting one of the country's most exported fruits, limes. Growers are reportedly facing threats from cartels who are demanding a cut of their profits.

Extortion by cartels has apparently gotten so severe that the Mexican government is calling in hundreds of guards to protect lime-growing operations. The Sheinbaum administration announced on Thursday, Oct. 10, it has sent nearly 700 National Guard soldiers to communities with significant lime growing operations.

Government officials said the troops will help escort trucks to market as they distribute fruit, and they'll be conducting searches of facilities.

The announcement comes after soldiers reportedly uncovered 10 guns and two grenades owned by cartels in a western community known for its abundant fruit distribution.

This isn't the first time that lime producers have faced trouble from gangs. In 2013, produce workers joined forces to create a vigilante force to end the influence cartels had over the fruit market. Extortionists were reportedly telling lime and avocado growers when they could harvest and how much they could charge for their fruits.

Mexican lime exports are not only facing challenges from cartels but extreme weather as well. High temperatures and dry conditions led to a shortage of limes earlier this year. As a result, key importers including some U.S. retailers made a temporary shift toward limes from Colombia and Peru.

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