Mexico has resumed live cattle exports to the United States through the Agua Prieta, Sonora–Douglas, Arizona border crossing following a period of animal-health restrictions linked to the presence of New World screwworm in Mexico.
Shipments restarted on August 24 with an initial movement of roughly 750 cattle. The reopening is being implemented gradually, with volumes expected to increase as exporters and authorities demonstrate continued compliance with the sanitary protocols agreed by both countries.
The updated framework includes stronger traceability requirements, animal identification, inspections and health surveillance before cattle reach the border. These measures are intended to reduce the risk of screwworm transmission while meeting the conditions required for Mexican livestock to enter the U.S. market.
Animal-health authorities from Mexico and the United States have coordinated the procedures with state governments and livestock organizations. Agua Prieta is the first border crossing to resume operations, while additional crossings in Chihuahua could follow subject to sanitary assessments.
The restrictions had disrupted an established trade channel for cattle producers in northern Mexico, where the U.S. is a key destination for live animal exports. The reopening restores that route gradually, although future shipment levels will remain closely tied to disease-control efforts and compliance with border health requirements.
For agricultural trade between Mexico and the United States, the restart highlights the direct connection between animal-health controls and cross-border market access. Traceability, inspections and the ability to respond quickly to new cases will remain central to keeping trade channels open and supporting a gradual increase in export volumes.
Source: MVS Noticias
