The United States plans to expand cattle imports from Mexico to two additional southern border ports after a yearlong suspension intended to prevent the spread of New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite.
The announcement marks the latest step in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s gradual easing of restrictions imposed after Washington halted imports of live Mexican cattle, bison, and horses in 2025.
The USDA resumed livestock trade through Douglas, Arizona, in August and through the larger Santa Teresa, New Mexico, port in September, marking the first stages of the border’s gradual reopening.
The department said on Tuesday that the Columbus, New Mexico, port of entry will reopen to cattle imports on Oct. 26. If animal health conditions continue to support safe trade, and inspection infrastructure remains in place, Nogales, Arizona, is scheduled to reopen on Nov. 30….