Mexico's ranchers face tough times

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U.S. agriculture officials suspended live cattle imports from Mexico in July due to concerns over the New World Screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite. The ban has severely impacted ranchers like Martín Ibarra Vargas, who had hoped to recover from two years of drought by selling calves across the border. The U.S. Department of Agriculture labeled the screwworm a "devastating pest" which threatens the livestock industry and food supply. Ranchers have been forced to adapt, with Ibarra Vargas diversifying into beekeeping and sheep farming. The ban has led to a significant drop in cattle exports, with ranchers selling at a loss within Mexico. Juan Carlos Ochoa, president of the Sonora Regional Cattle Union, noted that they had to sell over 35,000 mature cows at a 35% lower price. As ranchers face an uncertain future, Ibarra Vargas fears for the survival of his family business.


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