APHIS Ensures Safe Cattle and Bison Trade with New Protocols
The United States has resumed cattle and bison imports from Mexico under new safety protocols to prevent the spread of New World Screwworm (NWS).
The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) initially suspended imports in November 2024 after NWS was detected in southern Mexico.
To ensure safe imports, Mexico established pre-export inspection pens in San Jeronimo, Chihuahua, and Agua Prieta, Sonora. APHIS has inspected and approved these locations, where cattle and bison will undergo multiple screenings and treatment before crossing the border.
Entry is allowed only through the Santa Teresa and Douglas Ports of Entry. Livestock will also be dipped in a solution to remove any insects or ticks before importation.
“APHIS’ top priority is to protect American livestock from foreign pests,” officials stated. The U.S. and Mexico are also working to approve additional inspection sites and open more trade routes.
APHIS continues efforts to combat screwworm across Central America. Since 2006, the U.S. has maintained a biological barrier in Panama, but recent expansions in farming and cattle movement have led to the spread of NWS into several Central American countries.
To contain the outbreak, APHIS is releasing sterile flies through aerial and ground operations in targeted locations. More details on affected regions and trade policies are available on the USDA APHIS website.