US to Resume Mexican Livestock Imports After More Than a Year Amid Parasite Control Efforts

The United States will resume livestock imports from Mexico after a suspension of more than a year prompted by concerns over the spread of the New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite that poses a serious threat to animals.

In May 2025, the administration of President Donald Trump halted imports of live cattle, horses, and bison through the southern border following an outbreak of the New World screwworm (NWS), whose flesh-eating larvae can be fatal to livestock. Although the parasite has long been present in parts of Mexico, it was detected again in U.S. territory in early June this year.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on Friday that several livestock ports along the U.S.-Mexico border will gradually reopen beginning next month.

According to a USDA statement, livestock trade will resume through the Douglas, Arizona, port of entry on August 24. The agency also plans to reopen the Santa Teresa and Columbus ports of entry in New Mexico in phases.

The USDA said every animal entering the United States through these ports will undergo a comprehensive health inspection to ensure there are no signs of New World screwworm infection.

U.S. government data show that 42 cases of New World screwworm have been detected in the country since the parasite re-emerged.

The USDA added that the nearest active case to the Douglas, Arizona, port of entry is approximately 325 miles away and was identified on Wednesday, indicating that surveillance and containment efforts remain in place as border trade resumes.