U.S. Says Wal-Mart Illegally Shipped Avocados

The U.S. Department of Agriculture said it has charged Wal-Mart Stores Inc. with 156 counts of violating rules governing the importation of Mexican avocados into the United States. The USDA claims that Wal-Mart, the world’s biggest retailer, imported Hass avocados into states that do not place restrictions on avocado imports, then shipped 668 cartons of the fruit to states where avocados are not permitted to enter. “Shipping imported Mexican avocados against regulations could spread plant pests and jeopardize U.S. agriculture,” said Craig Reed, a USDA official. Wal-Mart did not immediately return a call for comment. Wal-Mart has 20 days to answer the allegations and has the opportunity to present its side at a hearing before a judge. The Bentonville, Ark., company could be assessed civil penalties for each violation, the department said. Wal-Mart shares fell 63 cents to close at $64.94 on the NYSE.