The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced plans to resume cattle imports from Mexico at two additional ports of entry, expanding a phased reopening after shipments were halted last year to block the entry of the flesh-eating parasite known as the New World screwworm.
According to an announcement posted on social media on Tuesday, the agency plans to restart cattle imports in Columbus, New Mexico, on October 26. A second reopening is scheduled for Nogales, Arizona, on November 30, provided that conditions for safe trade are fully established.
The previous suspension of Mexican cattle imports contributed to rising domestic food costs, helping push U.S. ground beef prices to record highs over the course of the year. The surge in beef prices has amplified public concern regarding food affordability as the country approaches the November midterm elections.
Efforts to restore livestock trade have moved forward incrementally in recent months. The USDA resumed imports through Douglas, Arizona, in August, followed by operations at a major port in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, in September. In addition to cattle, the agency stated that horse imports are expected to resume in Santa Teresa on October 26.
While trade gradually restarts, federal agricultural authorities continue monitoring the parasite’s presence domestically. The USDA reported that it has confirmed a total of 56 U.S. screwworm cases since June, with five of those cases currently active.
