Veracruz leads Mexico in cattle production despite export challenges

Veracruz has secured the top position in Mexico for both live cattle and beef carcass production. According to data from the Servicio de Información Agroalimentaria y Pesquera (SIAP), the state produced 531,571.78 tons of live cattle and 291,760.98 tons of beef carcass in 2024, surpassing Jalisco.

Despite this production leadership, the state has not yet met the quality and sanitary standards required to export livestock to the United States. Senator Manuel Huerta Ladrón de Guevara noted that while northern states like Sonora and Chihuahua have made commercial progress, Veracruz's production remains focused on domestic consumption.

The sector faces significant challenges, including economic losses estimated at approximately one billion pesos due to sanitary issues. Authorities are emphasizing the need for strengthened sanitary controls, particularly at the southern border, and the continued use of sterile flies to combat the screwworm to protect the industry.