New Screwworm Outbreak in Mexico Near U.S. Border Sparks Trade Concerns
The latest case of the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly larva that poses a significant threat to livestock and humans, has been reported in the northern Mexican state of Nuevo Leon, just 70 miles from the U.S. border. This detection has reignited discussions about the ongoing trade restrictions between the two nations, particularly regarding live cattle imports from Mexico. The U.S. Department of Agriculture remains committed to its ban on importing live cattle from Mexico, citing health and safety concerns following the latest outbreak.
The outbreak has led to economic fears for Mexico’s ranching industry, which is estimated to face potential losses of up to $400 million in the coming months. The U.S. has imposed its ban on live cattle imports since July 9th, following the last reported case in Veracruz, and is continuing its stance despite efforts by Mexico’s government to seek a resolution.
Experts warn that the spread of the screwworm, which has already infected over 500 cattle across southern states in Mexico, poses a significant threat to the U.S. cattle industry as well. Colin Woodall, CEO of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, has expressed serious concerns about the proximity of the outbreak to the U.S. border, emphasizing the urgent need to address the issue before it leads to further losses.
Mexico’s Agriculture Secretary Julio Berdegué has stated that the government is taking measures to control the spread of the insect in Nuevo Leon, working with U.S. officials to implement a joint strategy to combat the problem. However, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has reaffirmed Washington’s continued stance, stating that the United States will not rely on Mexico to protect its food supply, and that the U.S. will take decisive measures to safeguard its borders.
Local ranchers like Mollie Engelhart have voiced their concerns about the impact on the industry, highlighting the need for increased local processing and diversification of the cattle industry to mitigate long-term risks. These developments underscore the complex interplay between public health, economic interests, and international trade policies in the wake of the New World screwworm outbreak.