By Belize Live News Staff: Minister of Agriculture Jose Mai has assured the public that Belizean cattle exports remain safe and free from the new world screwworm. Speaking in response to growing pressure from Mexico’s Confederation of Cattle Producers, Mai revealed that Belize would rely on the International Regional Organization for Plant and Animal Health (OIRSA) to mediate if Mexico moves to ban cattle imports from Belize.
Mai emphasized that Belize adheres to strict international health protocols, pointing out that the country remains one of the few in Central America that is screwworm-free. “OIRSA would intervene if necessary,” he said, adding that Belize has been in daily contact with Mexico’s SENASICA to prevent any outbreak or illegal cattle movement.
The Mexican cattle lobby, representing over 8,000 farmers, has urged their government to close the border, citing fears of the pest spreading from Guatemala and other affected countries. However, Mai described their concerns as unwarranted, highlighting Belize’s clean track record and the scientific measures in place to ensure healthy livestock exports.
