The United States lifted a more‑than‑year‑old ban on cattle imports from Mexico on Monday, beginning with the Douglas, Arizona port. The phased reopening is part of a bilateral agreement that ties entry to Mexico’s compliance with screwworm‑control measures.
Federal safeguards and next steps
The USDA announced that the Douglas port will operate “guided by overlapping safeguards and a science‑based import protocol” agreed upon by both governments. The agency said it will evaluate additional ports in Santa Teresa and Columbus, New Mexico, for cattle, bison and horse imports once the initial phase proves successful.
According to the USDA website, the opening of any port may be paused if post‑opening audits identify an increased screwworm risk in the Mexican states of Sonora or Chihuahua.
Mexican containment efforts
Mexico’s Agriculture Minister, Columba Lopez, confirmed that the federal government is intensifying its sterile‑fly program in the northern border states where recent cases have emerged. In Chihuahua, 183 confirmed screwworm cases have been reported since the first detection in July, while Sonora has recorded two cases after its initial discovery last week.
Both states have activated emergency surveillance and containment protocols. Chihuahua has stepped up livestock‑movement controls and treatment campaigns, and Sonora has launched similar inspections. The sterile insect technique—releasing millions of sterilized screwworm flies to curb reproduction—remains the cornerstone of the eradication strategy.
Mexico recently opened a sterile‑fly production facility in Chiapas, and the United States is constructing its own plant in Texas, slated for completion in spring 2027.
Local impact and industry response
Texas and New Mexico cattle producers have expressed concern that the resumption of imports could re‑introduce the flesh‑eating parasite, which has already been detected in both states. State officials and several U.S. cattle industry groups warned that even with safeguards, the risk of spread remains significant.
“Our priority is protecting Texas ranchers and the health of our livestock,” said a spokesperson for the Texas Cattlemen’s Association. “We will closely monitor the situation and work with federal partners to ensure any threat is swiftly addressed.”
Local agricultural extension offices in the affected counties have begun outreach to ranchers, emphasizing the importance of early detection and reporting of any screwworm‑related symptoms in cattle.
Balancing trade and biosecurity
The reopening aligns with broader U.S. trade policy aimed at restoring cross‑border commerce while maintaining strict biosecurity standards. President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico described the sterile‑fly technique as “modern” and “effective,” noting that it enables the border to open safely.
Industry analysts note that the move could help alleviate some pressure on beef prices, though a recent local economic report cautioned that price reductions may be modest. The primary focus for both governments remains the containment of screwworm to protect the health of livestock and the livelihoods of ranching families.
What’s next?
Federal and state officials will continue to share data from post‑opening audits. If increased risk is identified, the USDA has indicated it will pause further imports until the threat is mitigated.
Ranchers in Texas and New Mexico are advised to stay informed through their local extension services and to report any suspected cases promptly.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
