USDA Plans Phased Reopening of Mexican Livestock Imports

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced a phased reopening of imports for cattle, bison, and equine from Mexico. This follows a closure due to the New World screwworm pest, with the first reopening set for Douglas, Arizona, on July 7.

The closure began on May 11 after the screwworm was detected moving northward in Mexico. The pest can carry maggots that inflict severe and often fatal damage on livestock and wildlife. Subsequent port openings in New Mexico and Texas are anticipated in the coming weeks.

To combat the pest, the USDA has announced plans to open a sterile fly dispersal facility in Texas and invested $21 million to upgrade a sterile fly production plant in Mexico. Both U.S. and Mexican officials are enhancing cooperation and control measures to prevent potential harm to American ranchers.

(With inputs from agencies.)