US Ambassador Celebrates New Facility in Mexico to Combat Screwworm Pest

U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson celebrated the opening of a facility in Chiapas dedicated to combating the New World screwworm. He was joined by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins at the inauguration.

The U.S. Department of State announced Saturday it will provide approximately $84 million in new funding to bolster these efforts. This includes expanding the production of sterile flies in southern Mexico and strengthening preventative measures, particularly along the northern border.

Ambassador Johnson emphasized that protecting U.S. supply chains, agricultural producers, and economic security is a priority. He noted that the screwworm pest threatens livestock, wildlife, and agricultural economies on both sides of the border. By collaborating and expanding the use of sterile fly technology, a proven method that previously eradicated the pest from North America, decisive action is being taken to halt its spread again.

This outbreak, described as "of great magnitude," could inflict over $700 million in annual losses on the U.S. agricultural sector and nearly $2 billion in overall economic damage. By combating the pest in Mexico, the initiative also safeguards U.S. ranchers, enhances food security, and supports the integrated agricultural economy that provides jobs and livelihoods for families on both sides of the border.

Johnson highlighted that the cooperation between the two nations reflects a commitment from both President Trump and President Sheinbaum to deliver concrete solutions and measurable results. He stated that by combining expertise, resources, and investment, the countries are addressing a shared challenge in a way that strengthens security, supports producers, and benefits their populations.