USDA Phased Reopening of Mexican Cattle Imports Begins August 24

The United States Department of Agriculture announced it will begin a phased resumption of live cattle imports from Mexico starting August 24, 2026. The reopening first targets the port of entry in Douglas, Arizona, followed by the potential opening of the Santa Teresa and Columbus ports in New Mexico. This move ends a year-long closure implemented in May 2025 to prevent the spread of the New World screwworm parasite.

Despite the ban, the parasite was detected on farms in Texas and New Mexico in June. To mitigate future risks, the USDA will require full inspections of all animals and tie subsequent port reopenings to Mexico's progress in meeting Joint Action Plan milestones, specifically focusing on low-risk areas in Sonora and Chihuahua. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has ordered local authorities to expedite export preparations.

Industry reactions are divided. The Meat Institute and National Cattlemen's Beef Association support the decision to stabilize supply chains and meet consumer demand. However, R-CALF USA warned that open borders incentivize the movement of cattle from areas where the pest is endemic. Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller praised the resumption of trade but criticized the USDA for spending over a year reacting to the crisis rather than preventing it, arguing that the slow response caused lasting disruption for producers.