Livestock exporters lose €592 million in 14 months to roundworm; meat sector celebrates reopening of borders

Mexican cattle exporters have suffered losses amounting to $592 million over 14 months due to restrictions imposed by the United States over the presence of the Mexican stem borer, according to industry analysts. The recent decision to gradually reopen U.S. borders to live cattle exports from Mexico has been welcomed by key agricultural organizations as a critical step toward recovery. The U.S. border closure began in May 2025, effectively halting the export of nearly 1.974 million head of cattle. This restriction forced Mexican ranchers to sell their livestock domestically at significantly lower prices, $900 per head instead of the $1,200 they could have fetched in the American market. As a result, the loss of potential revenue has been substantial. The gradual reopening of the border, starting August 24, marks a turning point for the industry. The Consejo Nacional Agropecuario (CNA), the Consejo Mexicano de la Carne (Comecarne), and the Grupo Consultor de Mercados Agrícolas (GCMA) emphasized that this move will allow the resumption of beef exports, which is viewed as positive news for the sector. These groups noted that while the border was closed during December 2024 and January 2025, it briefly reopened from February to May 2025 before being shut again in June 2025 and remaining closed until recently. Despite the closure, the export of beef managed to mitigate some of the damage. From January to June, Mexico exported $1.618 billion worth of beef to the U.S., although this figure is less than what would have been achieved through the export of live cattle. According to GCMA, the reduced supply of cattle entering U.S. feedlots led to a decrease in meat production by 731,000 metric tons, causing a rise in both cattle and meat prices to record levels. Ground beef approached $7 per pound, while sirloin exceeded $14 per pound. Comecarne highlighted on social media that the U.S. government had blocked the entry of Mexican cattle since the outbreak of the Mexican stem borer. The organization praised the recent decision to reopen the border, stating that it strengthens the integration of the value chain and reaffirms the importance of meat trade between the two countries. The CNA acknowledged the limited resources available to combat the Mexican stem borer but commended the efforts of the Mexican Ministry of Agriculture and the National Service for Agrifood Safety, Innocuity and Quality (Senasica). These agencies have implemented surveillance, control, and eradication measures using scientific expertise and commitment. A joint Action Plan with U.S. authorities based on scientific, technical, and risk management criteria has helped build mutual trust and facilitate the gradual reopening of border crossings. The CNA also pointed to progress in establishing a sterile fly breeding plant in southern Mexico, which aims to increase the production and release of these insects. This initiative is considered essential for accelerating containment and eradication efforts against the Mexican stem borer. Industry leaders remain cautious, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration between Mexican and U.S. health authorities. They stress the importance of maintaining the current momentum to ensure long-term stability in cross-border cattle trade. The successful implementation of the sterile fly program and ongoing monitoring will be crucial factors in determining the future success of the reopened border.