WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Agriculture will begin reopening southern ports for livestock trade with Mexico starting July 7, following a phased, risk-based approach to prevent the spread of the New World Screwworm.
The ports were closed on May 11 due to concerns about the northward spread of the New World Screwworm. Since then, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service experts have worked with Mexican authorities to expand surveillance and pest control, including consistently releasing over 100 million sterile flies per week.
The reopening schedule begins with Douglas, Arizona, on July 7, followed by ports in Columbus, New Mexico, on July 14, Santa Teresa, New Mexico, on July 21, Del Rio, Texas, on August 18, and Laredo, Texas, on September 15. Additional ports will reopen based on continued risk assessment, Mexico’s animal movement control progress, and inspection protocol adherence.
Eligible livestock includes cattle and bison from Sonora, Chihuahua, or animals treated per USDA protocols. Equines may be imported from anywhere in Mexico but must meet quarantine and inspection requirements. Full guidelines are available on the USDA APHIS website.
The USDA will continue working with Mexican officials to expand sterile fly production, strengthen border controls, and monitor pest movement to protect U.S. livestock industries.