The United States has suspended Mexican cattle imports immediately following a report of a new case of New World Screwworm (NWS) in Veracruz, about 160 miles north of the current sterile fly dispersal area. This decision was announced by U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, who ordered “the closure of livestock trade through southern ports of entry” due to “significant concern” over the parasite’s containment.
During a press conference, President Claudia Sheinbaum criticized the U.S. decision as “totally exaggerated,” assuring that Mexican authorities are adhering to all necessary protocols to manage the outbreak. Francisco Javier Calderón, director of Senasica, confirmed that the screwworm is confined to Mexico’s southeastern states.
This marks the second U.S. suspension of Mexican livestock imports this year. The previous ban, initiated on May 11, was in the midst of a phased reopening intended to conclude by September 15.
Additional Trade Considerations
In related trade news, the U.S.-Mexico tomato export agreement is set to expire on July 14, which may result in a 20.91% tariff on Mexican tomatoes. President Sheinbaum emphasized the challenge in replacing Mexican tomatoes, noting 70-80% of tomatoes consumed in the U.S. are sourced from Mexico, valued for both their volume and quality.
Addressing economic concerns, Sheinbaum also mentioned Mexico’s ongoing job losses, highlighting a decline in formal sector employment for the third consecutive month in June. She predicted an improvement due to upcoming infrastructure and housing initiatives.
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