Veggies From Mexico Attends the AMHPAC-AHIFORES Symposium of Social Responsibility in Farming
On April 29 and 30, we were able to attend the 7th Symposium of Social Responsibility in Farming organized by AHIFORES and AMHPAC, representing Veggies From Mexico. Beyond being a very well‑structured event, it was a space that allowed us to understand where Mexico—and particularly the farming sector—is heading in terms of social responsibility, sustainability, and human capital.
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Recently, talking about farming is no longer just about growing, yields, and markets. We are now also speaking about labor well-being, inclusion, mental health, human rights, sustainability, and dignity for those who make it possible for food to reach millions of tables every day. And that is just the valuable thing about this symposium: placing people at the center of the conversation.
All the conferences and panels were at a high level. Subjects related to human leadership, social compliance, labor trends, sustainability, certifications, and challenges the horticultural sector is currently facing in Mexico. It was truly interesting to hear how farming companies are evolving towards more comprehensive models, where productivity and social responsibility are no longer seen as separate issues, but as part of the same long-term strategy.
Personally, one of the lectures I enjoyed the most was the conference “The situation of Farm Workers in the Farming Sector”, lectured by PhD. Agustin Escobar. It was a very clear, objective, and grounded talk about the labor reality of the Mexican field. It allowed us to better understand both the progress made and the major challenges that are still existing with regards to labor mobility, living conditions, formality, education, and well-being of farm workers. Sometimes, we even lose perspective from the daily operations, and spaces like this help us see the bigger picture again.
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Additionally, several male and female field workers shared their experiences from different regions across the country. Their testimonies helped raise awareness about the realities and conditions many workers face, while reinforcing the importance of continuing to dignify working environments and employee benefits.
To close the event, Gustavo Robles’ lecture was especially valuable in helping us understand the legal changes that are coming — and some that are already in effect — for the industry in labor-related matters. Topics discussed included the “Ley Silla” (Chair Law), food provision for employees, proposed changes to weekly working hours, minimum wage adjustments, among others.
It was also very enlightening to interact with growers, companies, specialists, and sector leaders from different parts of the country. These types of gatherings generate something very important: conversation. And when an industry talks, shares experiences, and listens, that is when evolution truly begins.
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I am convinced that global trends will keep pushing farming towards higher standards of social responsibility and sustainability. International markets are already demanding so, but beyond that, I believe it is simply the right way to go. Mexican farming is not only able to feed the world but also to become an example of how to grow with responsibility, innovation, and a human‑centered approach.
Congratulations to AHIFORES and AMHPAC to continue promoting these spaces for learning and reflection across the industry. Without a doubt, the future of the field is also built by listening to people.
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