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Trade mission to Mexico aims to expand reach of US beef cattle genetics

Photo courtesy of Kansas Department of Agriculture

A multi-state trade delegation recently met with ag officials in Mexico to help expand the global reach of U.S. beef cattle genetics.

Suzanne Ryan-Numrich, ag marketing division director at the Kansas Department of Agriculture, says the trilateral meeting included Canadian counterparts.

“Over the years we’ve had a lot of in-bound and out-bound trade missions to Mexico and quite a bit of success for our seedstock producers selling semen and live animals into that market.”

She tells Brownfield Mexico is the largest ag trading partner for the state of Kansas, with trade totaling $1.85 billion in 2024.She says the U.S. delegation addressed shared industry concerns including trade barriers, inspection protocols, and threats such as the New World Screwworm.

“Through continued engagement and networking with the cattlemen in Mexico, better understanding their needs and their marketing goals, it takes time to build those relationships.”

Ryan-Numrich says the group also conducted site visits to cattle breeding operations and regional feedlots.

“I really want producers to understand that Mexico has an evolving livestock industry. Understanding their marketing goals is essential in beef genetics exports.”

The U.S. delegation included representation from Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, Idaho, and the Senepol Cattle Breeders Association. Funding for the trade mission was provided through the USDA Market Access Program.

INTERVIEW: Suzanne Ryan-Numrich with Kansas Department of Agriculture