Palomas-Columbus border crossing reopens for Mexican cattle exports

The Palomas-Columbus border crossing between Chihuahua, Mexico, and New Mexico, United States, has reopened for the export of live cattle. On the first day of operations, approximately 700 head of cattle crossed the border, out of a port capacity of 1,400 per day.

The reopening follows nearly two years of closures implemented to prevent the spread of the New World screwworm, a parasitic fly larva that threatens the livestock industry. To mitigate risks, new safeguards have been established, including mandatory tests, vaccinations, and inspections conducted before animals reach the border.

This reopening marks the third port to resume Mexican cattle imports under these enhanced sanitary protocols. While the move aims to help rebuild drought-depleted U.S. herds and support Chihuahuan producers, officials note that it will take time to return to previous import levels, which once reached approximately 1 million head of cattle annually.