The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a phased reopening of its southern border ports to allow the importation of live cattle from Mexico starting July 7, 2025. This decision followed nearly two months of suspension that began in May due to the detection of the New World screwworm (gusano barrenador) infestation in Mexico, which posed a threat to U.S. livestock health. The reopening plan includes specific border crossings such as Douglas, Arizona, Agua Prieta in Sonora, and Puerto Palomas and San Jerónimo in Chihuahua, with dates set throughout July and August. Approximately 882 to 900 head of cattle were reported to have crossed into the U.S. shortly after the border reopened. The Mexican government, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, confirmed that the screwworm outbreak is contained and has engaged in binational cooperation with U.S. authorities to combat the parasite, including the release of sterile flies as a control measure. Despite these efforts, on July 10, 2025, the USDA ordered an immediate closure of the border to live cattle, bison, and horse imports from Mexico after a new case of screwworm was detected in Veracruz. This renewed closure has been criticized by President Sheinbaum as an "exaggerated" and illogical response, given the containment measures in place. The suspension has had economic repercussions, with losses estimated at over $661 million for Mexico's livestock sector. Mexican officials continue dialogue with U.S. counterparts to establish clear technical indicators for border closures and to develop strategies for resuming trade. The screwworm infestation and resulting trade disruptions have raised concerns about the future of cattle exports, with projections indicating a potential 60% drop in Mexican cattle exports to the U.S. if border restrictions persist. The USDA's actions reflect ongoing vigilance regarding the parasite's northward spread and its impact on livestock trade between the two countries.