Imports from Mexico
The Department of Agriculture has announced the following phased reopening of southern border ports to cattle, bison, and equines imported from Mexico. The U.S. closed these ports on May 11 due to concerns about the spread of New World screwworm, but USDA states that since then progress has been made in several critical areas and it has not seen a notable increase in reported NWS cases in Mexico or any northward movement of the pest.
USDA notes that after each port reopening it will evaluate conditions to ensure that no adverse effects arise.
- Douglas, Ariz. – July 7
- Columbus, N.M. – July 14
- Santa Teresa, N.M. – July 21
- Del Rio, Texas – Aug. 18
- Laredo, Texas – Sept. 15
USDA states that additional port openings will be based on its continuous reevaluation of the number of cases and potential northward movement of NWS, Mexico’s continued efforts to curb illegal animal movements, and implementation of further rigorous inspection and treatment protocols.
Only cattle and bison born and raised in Sonora or Chihuahua, or that are treated according to cattle and bison protocol for New World screwworm when entering these states, will be eligible for import. In addition, reopening the Texas ports will be contingent on Coahuila and Nuevo Leon adopting the same NWS protocols.
Equines may be imported from anywhere in Mexico but require a seven-day quarantine at the port of entry and must comply with the equine NWS protocol and other applicable requirements. Approved equine facilities are available at the Santa Teresa port and will be available for entry of horses when that port is reopened.
Exports to Namibia
USDA reports that, effective July 1, U.S. exporters are eligible to ship fresh, frozen, or chilled poultry and poultry products to Namibia, a market valued at $15 million. USDA states that it has also successfully negotiated the removal of burdensome export and transit permit requirements for processed poultry products.
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