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 due to an outbreak of the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly that affects livestock. The reopening plan includes specific border crossings such as Douglas, Arizona, Agua Prieta in Sonora, and Puerto Palomas and San Jerónimo in Chihuahua, with staggered dates throughout July and August. Mexican authorities, including President Claudia Sheinbaum and Secretary of Agriculture Julio Berdegué, have worked closely with U.S. counterparts to control the pest and have confirmed containment of the outbreak in southern Mexico. Approximately 882 to 900 head of cattle crossed into the U.S. at the reopening. However, 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 the screwworm was detected in Ixhuatlán de Madero, Veracruz. This led to renewed suspension of trade, which Mexico’s President Sheinbaum described as an “exaggerated” response, emphasizing that the case was contained and measures were underway. The border closure has resulted in economic losses estimated at over $660 million for Mexico’s cattle industry since the initial suspension in May. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke L. Rollins has stressed the importance of preventing the parasite’s spread into the United States, while Mexican officials continue efforts including releasing sterile flies to combat the pest. The situation remains fluid as both countries coordinate to manage the health risks and economic impacts associated with the screwworm infestation.