Agriculture Secretary Rollins to Mexico: Stop worm spread or lose animal trade

In a bold move to safeguard the U.S. cattle industry, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has issued a stern warning to Mexico regarding the spread of a dangerous pest known as the New World screwworm. The U.S. has threatened to halt imports of live animals, including cattle and bison, if Mexico fails to take immediate action to combat this threat.

Rollins, in a letter obtained by Fox News, has set a deadline of April 30 for Mexico to address the growing crisis. Failure to do so will result in the U.S. restricting the importation of key animal commodities from Mexico. The New World screwworm, a flesh-eating fly whose larvae can devastate livestock populations, has been rapidly spreading from Central America into southern Mexico. The U.S. has been relying on a sterile insect technique program to control the pest, but this strategy is now at risk.

At the center of the conflict is Dynamic Aviation, a U.S. government-contracted carrier responsible for aerial fly dispersals. Mexican aviation authorities have limited Dynamic’s operations to just six days a week, hindering the urgent response needed to combat the screwworm’s advance. Additionally, Mexican customs officials are imposing high import duties on critical supplies funded by U.S. taxpayers, further delaying the campaign.

Rollins has demanded immediate action from Mexico, including long-term operational clearance for Dynamic Aviation, duty waivers on emergency materials, and the appointment of a senior-level liaison to expedite solutions. The U.S. is urging Mexico to act swiftly to prevent further spread of the screwworm, which poses a significant risk to American ranchers and the agricultural economy.

To salvage cooperation, Rollins has proposed an emergency summit between the U.S. and Mexico with government leaders, technical experts, and operational partners. The message is clear: Mexico must act quickly to avoid tough trade restrictions aimed at protecting America’s food supply and farming communities.

In conclusion, the U.S. is taking decisive action to address the threat posed by the New World screwworm and is prepared to implement trade restrictions if Mexico does not act promptly. The protection of the U.S. cattle industry is paramount, and cooperation between the two countries is essential to combatting this dangerous pest.