In a bold move to protect the U.S. cattle industry, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has issued a warning to Mexico. She announced that the U.S. will stop importing live animals, including cattle and bison, if Mexico does not take immediate action against a harmful pest known as the New World screwworm.
In a letter sent to Mexican officials, Rollins set a deadline of April 30 for Mexico to address the growing threat of this pest, which has been spreading from Central America into southern Mexico. If they fail to act, the U.S. will restrict imports of key animal commodities, a decision that could have significant economic consequences for both countries.
The New World screwworm is a flesh-eating fly whose larvae can severely harm livestock. The U.S. has invested heavily in controlling this pest in the past, successfully eradicating it in the 1960s. However, the current situation is alarming, and Rollins emphasized the urgency of the matter.
The USDA has relied on a strategy involving the release of sterile flies to keep the pest in check. But this program is now at risk. Mexican authorities have limited the operations of Dynamic Aviation, a U.S. contractor responsible for aerial dispersals, to just six days a week under a temporary permit. This restriction hampers efforts to combat the screwworm swiftly.
Rollins also highlighted that Mexican customs officials are imposing high import duties on essential supplies, such as sterile flies and aviation parts. These delays threaten the effectiveness of the response and could allow the screwworm to spread further.
The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has voiced strong support for Rollins’ actions, underscoring the potential economic damage if the pest reaches the U.S. NCBA President Buck Wehrbein noted that the pest could cost American producers millions if not contained.
In her letter, Rollins called for immediate actions from Mexico, including long-term operational clearance for Dynamic Aviation and waivers on emergency materials. She also proposed an emergency summit involving U.S. and Mexican leaders to discuss the situation.
The stakes are high. Every day that passes without action gives the screwworm a greater foothold, putting American ranchers and the agricultural economy at risk. Washington is sending a clear message: Mexico must act quickly or face tough new trade restrictions that could impact the food supply and farming communities in the U.S.