- Mexico has introduced mandatory treatment of cattle with ivermectin before any interregional transport.
- Farmers warn that the regulations will mean higher costs, delays and the risk of losses for producers.
- The United States has already suspended cattle imports, heightening concerns about the future of exports.
- Experts predict that disruptions in Mexico could destabilise global agribusiness and drive up meat prices worldwide.
Mexican meat producers sound the alarm
New regulations mandate that all cattle must be treated with ivermectin for at least three days before being transported between regions. The authorities justify this step by the need to combat the screw fly, which threatens livestock. Farmers respond that the sudden introduction of the requirement means delays in deliveries and additional costs that could undermine the stability of the national market.
The industry stresses that the regulations have been implemented without consultation and without preparing the control infrastructure. Farmers’ organisations warn that the result will be serious financial losses for both small farms and large establishments, and that the consequences will quickly affect meat prices and food availability for consumers.
Concerns about exports and the economy
The new regulations have also caused concern in foreign trade. The United States has already halted imports of Mexican cattle, and the additional requirements may also discourage other partners. As a result, Mexico risks losing some key markets, which will hit the entire North American meat supply chain.
Exporters warn that the restrictions will weaken Mexico’s reputation as a stable supplier and make it less competitive with South American countries. Experts add that disruptions to meat flows between Mexico and the US could have a knock-on effect on the global animal protein market, affecting prices and availability in Europe and Asia as well.
