Mexico, IICA Strengthen Efforts to Combat Livestock Pest

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) are expanding their collaboration to enhance prevention and control measures against the New World screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax), a livestock pest that poses a threat to rural economies.  

Julio Berdegué, MInister of Agriculture, and Manuel Otero, Director General, IICA, agreed to intensify joint efforts to manage the pest. As part of this agreement, IICA will allocate financial resources to support prevention and eradication initiatives led by the National Service for Agri-Food Health, Safety and Quality (SENASICA). These funds will strengthen existing programs and improve inspection measures at the southern border, particularly at the Federal Verification and Inspection Point (PVIF) in Veracruz. Planned improvements include upgrades to holding areas and the installation of specialized equipment.  

The partnership is expected to have a broader impact on regional cooperation efforts in Central America. It complements existing collaboration between Mexico, IICA, Central American countries, and the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA).

IICA will continue working with Mexican authorities under the “One Health” approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of animal, human, and environmental health. The initiative aims to restore the pest-free status that the region maintained for over two decades and could serve as a model for similar strategies in other countries.