U.S. Halts Mexican Livestock Imports Over Pest Risk

Mexico City, Mexico — The United States government has announced a temporary suspension of live cattle, horse, and bison imports from Mexico for the next 15 days due to sanitary concerns over the potential presence of the New World screwworm.

The measure was confirmed by Julio Berdegué, Mexico’s Secretary of Agriculture, who stated that the decision was communicated following a call with his U.S. counterpart, Brooke Rollins. Berdegué expressed disagreement with the suspension but expressed confidence that an agreement would be reached soon. “I will continue to provide updates,” he said.

Immediate Enforcement at Border Crossings

Rollins announced on social media that the suspension takes effect immediately at all ports of entry along the U.S. southern border. She justified the decision by stating that the U.S. livestock industry took three decades to recover from the last crisis caused by the New World screwworm.

The move comes despite Mexican authorities receiving recognition in late April for properly addressing mitigation requirements against the pest. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum recently asserted that the outbreak was already under control and questioned the pressure exerted by the U.S. government.

Awaiting Mexico’s Official Response

The Mexican government is expected to issue an official response in the coming hours, along with details of a new joint strategy to contain the screwworm and resume cross-border livestock trade as soon as possible.