(Bloomberg). Mexico claims it will resolve the U.S. avocado ban in just days, after locating the source of the threat to an inspector which triggered the suspension.

The country’s presidential spokesman Jesus Ramirez played down the nature of the threat to the U.S. inspector, but said the government is working with its northern neighbor to guarantee everyone’s safety.

The ban on avocados from Michoacán, a coastal state just west of Mexico City that has been plagued with violence in recent years, went into effect on Feb. 11 after an inspector said he received a threatening call to his cell phone. Andres Manuel Obrador, Mexico’s President, suggested that the U.S. decision was motivated by political and financial interests.

Ramirez, who said he didn’t personally know the culprit’s identity, said the threat wasn’t concerning. “It has no importance,” he said in a phone interview with Bloomberg News, saying he understands it wasn’t a “direct threat.” He noted that Mexico’s national guard accompanies inspectors to ensure their safety. “There’s no problem so we’re going to see what more is required.” 

Separately, Mexico’s avocado export group APEAM met with several U.S. and local authorities to review security measures and protocols, according to a tweet from the organization.  

Mexico makes up 80% of America’s market. The ban may increase prices for American consumers on another product that is part of an economy struggling with the worst inflation rise in 40 years. 

Read More: Avocado Spat Brews After U.S. Mexico: Inspector is at Risk

©2022 Bloomberg L.P.