USDA Halts Livestock Trade from Mexico Following New Screwworm Detection

Key Takeaways

• USDA suspends port reopening plan after new New World Screwworm (NWS) case in Veracruz, Mexico
• Latest detection raises concerns about NWS containment and proximity to U.S. border
• Phased port reopening strategy for cattle, bison, and horses now paused
• USDA strengthens eradication and surveillance measures in collaboration with Mexico
• Facility development in South Texas and new domestic production efforts continue as contingency measures

USDA Responds to New Screwworm Case in Veracruz

Detection prompts immediate action on livestock trade policy

The USDA has suspended its phased port reopening strategy following a new detection of New World Screwworm (NWS) in Ixhuatlán de Madero, Veracruz. The location lies roughly 370 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border and 160 miles north of Mexico’s current sterile fly dispersal zone. The announcement, issued by Mexico’s National Service of Agro-Alimentary Health, Safety, and Quality (SENASICA), marks a concerning northward spread of NWS and has prompted U.S. officials to take precautionary action.

This new case follows earlier northern detections in Oaxaca and Veracruz in May 2025, which led to the original closure of southern U.S. ports to livestock imports. The USDA had previously planned to begin reopening five ports in phases starting July 7, but that schedule has now been postponed.

USDA Prioritizes Containment and Surveillance

Secretary Rollins orders immediate halt to southern port entries

Citing the threat to American livestock and food security, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins ordered the immediate suspension of cattle, bison, and equine imports through southern ports of entry. “We are pausing the planned port reopenings to further quarantine and target this deadly pest in Mexico,” said Rollins, who emphasized the need for progress in eradicating NWS in Veracruz and neighboring states.

The USDA continues to enforce a strict NWS-free buffer zone through coordinated surveillance, animal movement controls, and sterile fly dispersal programs. Personnel will conduct on-site inspections throughout Mexico to verify containment efforts and ensure adequate response measures are in place.

Strategic Measures Continue at the Border

Facility development and contingency planning underway

In parallel with the response efforts, USDA is advancing plans for a sterile fly dispersal facility in South Texas. This facility is expected to enhance the department’s readiness should an NWS outbreak occur in the United States. Additionally, the USDA is proceeding with plans to build a domestic sterile fly production facility to support long-term eradication goals.

These efforts are part of USDA’s broader initiative, launched in June, to reinforce NWS control through increased collaboration with Mexico and southern U.S. states including Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico.

USDA Emphasizes Continued Oversight

Vigilance and cooperation key to protecting U.S. livestock

USDA officials stress that the protection of American livestock remains a top priority and that reopening ports will depend on clear evidence of containment progress in Mexico. “Thanks to aggressive monitoring by USDA staff in the U.S. and in Mexico, we have been able to take quick and decisive action,” said Secretary Rollins.