COFECE Clears Mission Produce‑Calavo Merger, Target Date Set for May 28, 2026

Context Mission Produce (NASDAQ: CVGW) and Calavo Growers (NASDAQ: AVO) have been pursuing a cross‑border merger that would combine two of the largest fresh‑produce distributors in North America. The deal requires approval from multiple regulators, including Mexico’s antitrust authority, COFECE. Earlier this year the companies filed a joint registration statement on Form S‑4, a document that provides detailed information to shareholders about the transaction.

Key Facts - COFECE issued antitrust clearance, satisfying the Mexican closing condition outlined in the merger agreement. - Both firms now expect the transaction to close on May 28, 2026, provided all other contractual conditions are met. - The definitive Joint Proxy Statement and Prospectus, which contain the final terms and shareholder voting instructions, were mailed to investors around March 25, 2026.

What It Means The COFECE approval removes a major regulatory hurdle, reducing execution risk for a deal that spans the United States and Mexico. With the Mexican antitrust condition cleared, the companies must now focus on remaining requirements, which may include approvals from U.S. regulators, shareholder votes, and any contractual obligations noted in the Form S‑4 filing. The joint proxy statement sent in late March will guide shareholders through the voting process and disclose any outstanding conditions.

The timeline suggests that both parties anticipate a smooth path to closing, but the “subject to continued satisfaction of all closing conditions” language signals that final approval is not guaranteed. Investors should monitor forthcoming SEC filings for updates on the status of U.S. antitrust reviews, shareholder meeting outcomes, and any amendments to the registration statement.

Looking Ahead The next critical milestone will be the filing of final closing documents and any related disclosures confirming that all conditions have been satisfied. Stakeholders should watch for the companies’ SEC reports in the weeks leading up to the May 28 target date.