In an interview for Veggies From Mexico, we had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Antonio Mendizabal González, Director of the International Horticultural Alliance for the Promotion of Social Responsibility, a civil association known as AHIFORES. During the interview, Antonio emphasized the significance of social responsibility in agricultural companies. He also discussed the services provided by AHIFORES to its members, including the Responsible Agricultural Company Certification (CEAR) and the Good Practices of Social Responsibility Tours. Additionally, Antonio shed light on the actions planned for the coming years to enhance and fortify the fruit and vegetable industry. Notably, he addressed the growing demands from international markets concerning social responsibility.

1. Would you mind sharing some details about your professional life?

Certainly! I have over 11 years of experience in the Mexican agribusiness sector. My educational background includes a Master’s Degree in Senior Management and a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with various stakeholders across the value chain, particularly within the fruit and vegetable export sector. Notably, I’ve worked in the public sector at SADER, collaborated with Consultores Internacionales, S.C. in the private sector, and engaged with civil associations such as México Calidad Suprema, A.C.

Currently, I work as the Director of the International Horticultural and Fruit Alliance for the Promotion of Social Responsibility, civil association (AHIFORES), and I also hold the position of Institutional Liaison with the Association of Growers and Packers of Avocado Exporters of Mexico (APEAM).

2. What is the International Horticultural and Fruit Alliance for the Promotion of Social Responsibility (AHIFORES), and when did you assume its direction?

AHIFORES is a non-profit civil association founded in 2015. It was established on the initiative of the private sector with the primary objective of consolidating efforts and generating actions that seek alternative solutions to labour and social issues in the agricultural industry in Mexico. My journey with AHIFORES began in 2021 as an Institutional Liaison under the presidency of Armando Lopez, the current general director of APEAM. Last February, I was appointed Director, now serving under the presidency led by Marion Avril, Director of Sustainability and Social Innovation at Driscoll’s in Mexico.

3. How important do you consider social responsibility in agricultural companies?

The relevance of social responsibility lies in the sustainability of the business. Our sector’s operations are intricately linked to natural resources and the environment, with a high dependence on labor. Ignoring the importance of being socially responsible for the ecosystem and human capital would jeopardize the future of any business.

It’s crucial to note that compliance with Social Responsibility, particularly in labor matters, is regulated in Mexico by the Federal Labor Law (LFT). This law establishes a series of obligations for employers in the field. Non-compliance can result in sanctions by Mexican authorities and trade restrictions. Specifically, obligations related to unionization are critical. AHIFORES and its members actively promote and create awareness about the importance of connecting workers’ and communities’ needs with companies in the agricultural sector. We also develop services and tools that facilitate the implementation of labor standards and the development of sustainable value chains.

4. What are the main programs and services offered by AHIFORES to its members?

• Virtual and In-Person Advisory Services: AHIFORES offers expert guidance for Social Responsibility practices implementation. Whether virtually or in person, our advisors assist members in adopting responsible practices.
• Courses in Labor, Social Security, and Occupational Health and Safety: We provide specialized training to enhance members’ understanding of labor regulations, social security, and safety protocols.
• Conversations on Key Sector Topics: AHIFORES hosts discussions on critical industry matters, including Labor Supervision and Obligations related to the T-MEC (Mexico-United States-Canada Agreement).
• Webinars with National and International Institutions, NGOs, and Specialized Firms: These webinars are free for everyone in the industry. They provide valuable insights and foster collaboration among stakeholders.
• Specialized Diagnostics in Social Responsibility: AHIFORES conducts assessments to help companies in the sector understand their compliance level with social responsibility standards.
• Pre-Audits and Technical Support: We offer pre-audit services and technical assistance to ensure companies are well-prepared for official audits.
• Technical Advising
• National and International Forums and Seminars: AHIFORES organizes forums and seminars to facilitate knowledge sharing and networking.
• Seminars
• Good Practices Tours: Members can participate in tours to learn from best practices in the industry.
• Certifications (CEAR or DEAR T-MEC): AHIFORES assists companies in obtaining certifications related to social responsibility.
• Free Virtual Platforms for Self-Assessment: Companies can use these platforms to assess their compliance with social responsibility standards.

5. What is the Responsible Agricultural Enterprise Certification (CEAR), and how can companies achieve it?

The Responsible Agricultural Company Certificate (CEAR) is a certification scheme audited by independent institutions and accredited by the Mexican Accreditation Entity (EMA). It serves as a tool designed for growers to evaluate their level of compliance in the field of Social Responsibility, aligning with the provisions of current legislation in Mexico and relevant international instruments.

This certification encompasses seven standards:

1. Process Quality Management
2. Labor Rights
3. Welfare for Workers and Their Families
4. Occupational Health and Safety
5. Environmental Protection
6. Community Outreach
7. Internal and External Dissemination

To initiate the certification process, companies can request free access to the Responsible Agricultural Company Certification Information System (SICEAR) available at the SICEAR website https://www.sicear.com.mx/Identificacion.aspx. Here, they can directly perform their diagnostic self-assessment online, print their results, and determine their compliance with the Social Responsibility level. Additionally, companies can seek support from our consultants before undergoing third-party audits. NORMICH of Michoacán is responsible for conducting audits under this scheme.

6. What is the Social Responsibility Best Practices Tour?

The Social Responsibility Best Practices Tours were established to create a collaborative space where Alliance members visit partner companies’ facilities where participants interact and share knowledge, experiences, and progress related to Social Responsibility. The tours recognize the implementation of improvements and good practice projects across different companies and value chains. Setting an example motivates other companies to initiate and implement processes and projects (sometimes entirely innovative) to enhance working conditions for the benefit of their staff members.

7. What measures is AHIFORES anticipated to undertake in the forthcoming years to enhance and enhance the fruit and vegetable industry?

Under the leadership of our president, Marion Avril, AHIFORES has outlined several strategic actions for the future:

1. Become a model trainer in agricultural social responsibility: AHIFORES aims to create a comprehensive labor compliance management system that is user-friendly and useful for the nation’s agricultural sector. By doing so, we aspire to set the standard for responsible practices.
2. Positioning as an Opinion Leader in Multi-Stakeholder Forums: We seek to actively engage in various forums where stakeholders collaborate to construct and implement strategies related to labor compliance. AHIFORES can drive positive change and address systemic challenges affecting the sector by being an opinion leader.
3. Openness and Participation in Public Policy Development: AHIFORES maintains an impartial profile while actively contributing to the public policies creation. Our purpose is to enhance working conditions within the sector through constructive dialogue and collaboration.

8. How do you foresee the demands of international markets in social responsibility terms?

The demands of international markets regarding social responsibility are increasingly high. Consumers and companies are seeking products that have been produced ethically and sustainably. This includes considerations such as fair treatment of workers, environmental protection, and respect for local communities.

In the coming years, we expect this trend to continue, with stricter rules and regulations related to social responsibility. Companies that take steps to anticipate these trends and adopt socially responsible practices will not only meet the demands of international markets but also set themselves apart from competitors. Mexico has already set an international benchmark in terms of food safety, and we can build upon this success.

Learn more about the International Horticultural Alliance for the Promotion of Social Responsibility, A.C. (AHIFORES) at: https://ahifores.com/