Mexico Clears Import of Over 8,000 Cattle From Australia

In a move aimed at improving the genetic quality of Mexico’s cattle herd, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER) authorized the import of 8,014 live cattle from Australia following health and safety verifications in both countries.

SADER, through the National Service for Agri-Food Health, Safety, and Quality (SENASICA), oversaw the shipments as part of a bilateral agreement with Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry. The two approved shipments are the first of four scheduled for 2025.

Mexican veterinary specialists traveled to Australia to conduct on-site inspections of the cattle prior to shipment. The first group of 3,019 animals was verified in-person for the absence of high-risk diseases. A second group of 4,995 cattle underwent a similar process in late March.

SENASICA’s Verification at Origin scheme allows officials to certify compliance with Mexican health regulations and quarantine procedures before the animals enter the country. The process aims to prevent the introduction of exotic livestock diseases that could threaten domestic herds.

The specialists inspected animals for blue tongue, Akabane, Aino virus, bovine viral diarrhea, leukosis, trichomoniasis, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis, campylobacteriosis, dermatophilosis, anaplasmosis, anthrax, blackleg, malignant edema, paratuberculosis, and bovine ephemeral fever.

Once cleared, the cattle were loaded onto specialized vessels at the port of Portland, Australia, and arrived 24 days later at the port of Mazatlán. Upon arrival, specialists reviewed the animals’ condition and verified documentation before authorizing their transport to breeding farms in Aguascalientes, Guanajuato, Chihuahua, Durango, and Jalisco.

The agency says that all animals arrived in good condition and showed no signs of illness or injury. The cattle were transported in designated cages to reduce stress and ensure animal welfare during transit. The program supports livestock producers by introducing improved genetics to Mexico’s national herd, while maintaining strict sanitary standards.