United States reopens New Mexico livestock port to Mexican cattle after yearlong screwworm closure

On September 24, 2026, the United States reopened the main livestock inspection port at Santa Teresa, New Mexico, after a yearlong closure due to New World screwworm concerns. The USDA halted trade in 2025 to contain the pest, which had been confirmed in a Texas calf. The reopening aims to expand cattle supplies, but experts say it will not quickly lower record-high beef prices because imported cattle take months to reach slaughter weight and U.S. herds are at a 75-year low. Daily crossings will be limited to 750-1,600 animals, down from a peak of 3,000. The USDA also plans to consider reopening another port in Columbus, New Mexico.