Mexico, US Agree on Phased Reopening of Cattle Border

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER) announced a phased reopening of the border for live cattle trade between Mexico and the United States to begin on July 7. This decision follows the US government’s positive evaluation of Mexico’s strategy to control and eradicate the cattle screwworm (GBG), described as one of the best bilateral collaborations in history.

Although Brooke Rollins, US Secretary of Agriculture, had initially proposed a reopening schedule, Julio Berdegué, Minister, SADER, requested a review to explore the possibility of accelerating some deadlines. On July 1, a bilateral technical meeting will take place between the US Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and Mexico’s National Service for Agro-Alimentary Health, Safety and Quality (SENASICA) to follow up on the agreements.

SADER also announced a new phase in controlling cattle movement within the country. Starting July 7, the transport of cattle without inspection and treatment certification for GBG will be prohibited from affected regions to central and northern Mexico. This measure aims to prevent further spread of the pest.

The Mexican government affirmed its commitment to continuing the control and eradication efforts for GBG, alongside working toward a full reopening of live cattle trade. Live cattle are highly demanded by feedlots in the southern region of the United States and the reopening of the border is expected to benefit producers and consumers in both countries.