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New World screwworm raises questions ahead of USMCA review

The Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation says it’s too soon to know if the spread of New World screwworm will impact USMCA renewal.

Richard Fordyce says the review process that begins on July 1 is an opportunity to update and strengthen the deal. “As agriculture changes, markets change. I think that negotiation will be ongoing.  New World screwworm and its effect on negotiations, I think time will tell, but I don’t anticipate that being a stumbling block.”

He tells Brownfield the U.S. and Mexico have communicated very well about the pest over the last 18 months, which has helped keep broader discussions on track. “Mexico is aware of what we’re doing. We’re aware of what Mexico is doing as it relates to the response of New World screwworm. I would also say that USMCA negotiations continue.”

Fordyce says both countries remain focused on combatting the spread of. The pest while advancing other trade objectives.