US Halts Livestock Trade with Mexico
The United States has temporarily suspended livestock trade with Mexico following the detection of New World screw-worms in Veracruz, a situation that poses risk to cattle, bison, and horses.
On Wednesday, US Agriculture Secretary Brook Rollins announced the suspension. He stated, “I ordered an immediate halt to the trade of cattle, bison, and horses that lived across the borders of the southern US. This action is vital after Mexico confirmed a new case of New World screwworms in Veracruz. We’re committed to protecting American livestock and food supplies.”
Rollins reassured that the US remains vigilant, highlighting that the discovery of this pest has led to the suspension of prior reopening plans, along with additional quarantining efforts in Mexico. “Thanks to the active surveillance from USDA personnel, we’ve been able to respond swiftly to this serious issue,” he noted.
According to the National services for agricultural health and safety in Mexico, a new screw-worm case was reported on July 8, pinpointed at Ixhatlan de Madero in Veracruz. This area is roughly 160 miles north of the sterile fly release zones in the eastern part of the country and about 370 miles south of the US border.
This recent detection comes just two months after similar reports from Oaxaca and Veracruz were noted. Those alerts had previously prompted a closure of cattle, bison, and horse imports from Mexico in May.
The USDA previously proposed a phased reopening of ports for Mexican livestock until July 7, 2025. However, this newly reported screw-worm situation casts doubt on earlier assurances provided by Mexican officials, complicating the planned reopening schedule.
The USDA describes these screw-worms as a “devastating pest,” known for causing severe damage to living animals by burrowing into their flesh.
Essentially, these pests can inflict significant harm, as they leave deep wounds that worsen over time due to their feeding behavior. The USDA explains that their feeding can result in severe and sometimes fatal injuries to livestock.
