Economic impact on the Mexican livestock sector
The accumulated losses in the Mexican livestock sector exceed 400 million dollars during 2025, according to data from the Agricultural Markets Consulting Group. This figure reflects the consequences of the unilateral closure of imports by the United States, a measure implemented after detecting cases of screwworm in Veracruz. Juan Carlos Anaya, director of the consulting firm, stressed that the 64% reduction in live cattle exports during the first five months of the year aggravates the crisis.
New restrictions and lack of regionalization
The recent announcement by Broke Rollins, secretary of the US Department of Agriculture, about a new blockade – just three days after reopening the border – has generated outrage among producers. The National Agricultural Council (CNA) criticized the decision, pointing out that the outbreak in Ixhuatlán de Madero, 600 km from the border, does not justify a general ban. “The absence of regionalization measures disproportionately harms exporting states such as Sonora or Chihuahua,” said Anaya.
This restrictive approach contrasts with international protocols that promote localized containment, avoiding paralyzing bilateral trade. Experts point out that the US measure could respond to internal pressure from the agricultural lobby, rather than objective health criteria.
Medium-term consequences
The recurring interruption of the commercial flow directly affects 50,000 families dependent on livestock in northern Mexico. In addition, regulatory uncertainty has slowed investments in livestock infrastructure, with a 18% decline in projects registered in 2025. The supply chain also faces challenges: meatpackers and transporters report losses of $120 million due to forced inactivity.
Organizations such as the World Organization for Animal Health (WHO) have offered technical mediation, but the US maintains its position. Meanwhile, Mexico is exploring alternative markets in Asia and the Middle East, although reconversion will take at least two years.
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