Trump's threat to close the Mexican border drives up the prices of the lawyer

Mexican avocado price indicators have seen the sharpest rise in almost a decade, with buyers weighing on Donald Trump's last speech about his threat to close the border with Mexico, the biggest supplier of fruit.

The price of Hbad of Michoacan, the heart of avocado production in Mexico, jumped 34% Tuesday. That's the biggest gain in a day since April 13, 2009. Prices will continue to rise if Trump keeps up the threat, said Roland Fumasi, vice president and senior badyst at Rabobank.

"The prices of the lawyer could easily double or triple if we close the border," Fumasi said by phone.

The United States is more dependent on Mexico for avocados this year because of the heat wave that has delayed the harvest in California. (The photo credit should match MARK RALSTON / AFP / Getty Images)

MARK RALSTON AFP / Getty Images

Prices have probably skyrocketed as importers increased their purchases ahead of potential border problems, Fumasi said. In addition, a heat wave last year in California delayed harvests, making the United States even more dependent on Mexican supplies. "Because California is late and its harvest is small, Mexico counts for almost all our lawyers," he said.

Mexican lawyers account for 75% to 80% of US consumption and California about 16%, according to data from the Haas Avocado Board. Chile and Peru provide most of the rest.

Formerly reserved mainly for dips and salads, the avocado is now considered a superfood thanks to its nutritional characteristics and its smooth texture. Some people even eat their roasted kernels.