International validation for an innovative strategy
The historic Moscamed plant, located in Metapa de Domínguez, Chiapas, has been validated by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) as a strategic center for the production of sterile flies intended to combat the livestock screwworm (GBG). This decision marks a milestone in the fight against one of the most devastating pests for the livestock industry in America. The Government of Mexico highlighted that the infrastructure, operational since 1979, has specialized equipment, including a rechargeable irradiator, which will facilitate its adaptation to the new function.
Investment and transnational collaboration
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced an investment of 21 million dollars to modernize the plant, with the goal of producing 100 million sterile insects weekly. The visit of international experts, including Frédéric Poudevigne from the FAO and representatives from the International Atomic Energy Organization (IAEA), underlines the urgency of analyzing the rapid advance of GBG from Central America to Mexico in less than two years. It was proposed to evaluate more effective wild strains if the current one shows signs of unadaptability.
The technique of releasing sterile males, tested against the Mediterranean fly in this same plant, reduces the reproduction of the pest by crossing infertile specimens with wild females. However, the temporary closure of US borders to Mexican livestock – in effect since May 11 – reflects the seriousness of the problem and the need for immediate solutions.
Historical context and future challenges
Founded in 1979, Moscamed operated for four decades in the sterilization of fruit flies, demonstrating the viability of this method. Its reconversion for the GBG faces challenges such as the selection of optimal strains and coordination with affected countries. Brazil, represented by Jorge Caetano Junior, actively participates in the project, evidencing the regional scope of the initiative.
According to the Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development (Sader), this approach not only protects livestock production—which contributes 1.7% of the national GDP—but also avoids million-dollar losses due to quarantines. The USDA will reevaluate the import restriction every 30 days, putting pressure on Mexico to demonstrate tangible results.
Economic and scientific impact
The GBG plague, native to the Caribbean, affects cattle, pigs and even humans, with larvae that devour living tissues. Its control through sterilization reduces the use of pesticides, aligning with sustainability goals. The 21 million dollars invested by the US reflect confidence in this technology, although experts insist on monitoring its long-term effectiveness.
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