The United States and Mexico have reached a critical agreement to address the outbreak of the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly threatening livestock, wildlife, and, in rare cases, humans. This accord comes after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) warned of potential restrictions on Mexican livestock imports if decisive actions were not taken.
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins had issued an ultimatum to Mexico, demanding the removal of barriers hindering eradication efforts, such as restrictions on USDA aircraft and customs duties on essential equipment. Failure to comply by April 30 would have resulted in the suspension of imports of cattle, bison, and equine animals from Mexico.
In response, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced intensified national efforts to combat the screwworm, including lifting restrictions on aerial spraying operations and expediting the importation of sterile flies used in the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT).
The agreement ensures the continuation of livestock trade between the two countries, which is vital for both economies. The U.S. imports over a million cattle annually from Mexico, and a ban could have exacerbated already low cattle supplies, leading to increased beef prices.
This collaborative effort underscores the importance of international cooperation in managing agricultural pests and protecting the livestock industry. Both nations have committed to ongoing surveillance and rapid response measures to prevent the spread of the screwworm and safeguard their respective agricultural sectors.