US to increase cattle imports from Mexico amid domestic shortage

The United States plans to resume live cattle imports from Mexico through the Santa Teresa border crossing in New Mexico on September 24, reopening the largest channel for such shipments. In 2024, nearly 500 thsd head moved through the port, accounting for around 40% of total US cattle imports from Mexico.

Shipments from Mexico were suspended in late 2024 due to the risk of New World screwworm. Before the restrictions, Mexico supplied more than 1 mln head of cattle to the US each year, where the animals were then fed and processed.

The drop in imports has worsened the US cattle shortage and created difficulties for beef processors. Some companies have reduced or closed processing capacity because of tight cattle supplies, while consumer beef prices have risen to record levels.

The US is also considering reopening additional border crossings. More than 6 thsd head have already entered through Douglas, Arizona, since that port resumed operations at the end of August.

Animal-health risks remain, however. The US currently has only two active New World screwworm cases, while Mexico still has around 2,000. Further expansion of cattle imports will depend on disease conditions and compliance with veterinary protocols.

Tags: Mexico, cattle, USA, imports, live cattle