How the USDA’s largest trade mission is reshaping U.S.-Mexico agricultural and diplomatic relations.
The relationship between the United States and Mexico is a cornerstone of North American prosperity, especially within the agricultural sector. Reinforcing this vital partnership, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins recently led the largest agribusiness trade mission in our nation’s history to Mexico City. The mission brought together a powerful delegation to expand trade opportunities, strengthen diplomatic ties, and address critical cross-border issues, underscoring a commitment to mutual growth and security.
This historic event was more than just a series of meetings; it was a demonstration of collaborative action. The mission focused on several key objectives: expanding market access for American agricultural products, addressing the persistent threat of New World Screwworm (NWS), and ensuring adherence to long-standing water treaty commitments. The outcomes highlight the immense potential that emerges when our two nations work in concert to achieve shared goals.
A Trade Mission of Historic Proportions
The scale of this trade mission was unprecedented. Secretary Rollins led a delegation comprising 41 U.S. businesses, 33 cooperators and agriculture advocacy groups, and representatives from six state departments of agriculture. Over three days, this group of 150 participants engaged in more than 500 business-to-business meetings, creating direct channels for American producers and Mexican buyers to connect.
These meetings are the lifeblood of international trade. They provide a platform for U.S. companies to showcase their high-quality products and for Mexican importers to find reliable suppliers. The sheer volume of interactions fostered new relationships and fortified existing ones, paving the way for increased exports and economic benefits on both sides of the border. This was a critical opportunity for American businesses to deepen their footprint in a key market.
The delegation’s diversity was a testament to the broad scope of American agriculture. It included officials from the state departments of agriculture in Idaho, Nebraska, Washington, California, Tennessee, and Wisconsin, each representing the unique strengths of their region’s farmers and ranchers.
Diplomatic Engagement and Key Discussions
Beyond the business meetings, the mission featured high-level diplomatic discussions. Secretary Rollins met with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum at the Presidential Palace for a productive conversation. The dialogue centered on strengthening cooperation to tackle pressing issues that affect both economies.
“The trading and diplomatic relationship between our two countries is of the utmost importance to President Trump and American farmers and ranchers,” said Secretary Rollins. She emphasized the multifaceted nature of the partnership, noting, “Whether it is securing the Southern Border from illegal migration, combatting New World Screwworm, or expanding market access for American agricultural products, we are working every day to put American interests first.”
The discussions reaffirmed a shared commitment to several critical areas:
New World Screwworm Eradication: Both leaders agreed to a comprehensive joint review of the ongoing response to the NWS infestation, which poses a significant threat to livestock and wildlife in both countries.
1944 Water Treaty: The conversation included ensuring enforcement of joint responsibilities under the historic water treaty, a crucial agreement for managing shared water resources.
USMCA Review: The upcoming review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) was also a key topic, highlighting the importance of maintaining a fair and effective trade framework.
Confronting the New World Screwworm Threat
A major focus of the mission was the coordinated effort to combat the spread of New World Screwworm. This parasitic pest can have devastating effects on livestock, causing significant economic losses for ranchers. The U.S. has a long history of working with Mexico to control and eradicate this threat, and this mission served to intensify those efforts.
Secretary Rollins visited the NWS Control Room at the headquarters of Mexico’s National Service of Agro-Alimentary Health, Safety, and Quality (SENASICA). This visit showcased the advanced bilateral efforts and technology being used to monitor and contain the pest.
Accompanying the Secretary, Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Dudley Hoskins traveled to the State of Chiapas. His visit involved a direct review of NWS containment practices and enforcement measures on the ground. This hands-on approach ensures that strategies are being implemented effectively and provides valuable insights for refining the joint response. The commitment to a comprehensive review signals a renewed, aggressive stance against NWS.
Mexico: A Vital Partner in U.S. Agricultural Trade
The choice of Mexico for this landmark trade mission was strategic. In 2024, Mexico stood as the top market for U.S. agricultural exports, with shipments valued at an impressive $30.2 billion. This robust trade relationship is a powerful engine for economic growth in the American heartland.
The composition of this trade is diverse, reflecting the varied tastes of Mexican consumers and the needs of its food processing industry.
Consumer-Oriented Products: Making up nearly half of all agricultural exports, this category includes meat, dairy, processed foods, fruits, and beverages. In 2024, these sales reached $14.6 billion.
Bulk Commodities: Essential grains and crops like corn, soybeans, wheat, and rice accounted for one-third of shipments, valued at $10.0 billion.
To see this trade in action, Secretary Rollins and Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg visited a Walmart Super Center in Mexico City and the Bimbo Bakery. These visits highlighted how major Mexican retailers and food producers rely on U.S. ingredients. Grupo Bimbo, a global baking leader, imported nearly $400 million worth of U.S. products in 2024, including wheat, dairy, eggs, and nuts. This integration demonstrates a deeply interconnected supply chain that benefits producers, manufacturers, and consumers in both nations.
Looking Ahead: A Future of Collaboration
This historic trade mission did more than just generate business leads; it solidified a partnership built on shared interests and mutual respect. The frank discussions on screwworm eradication, water rights, and the future of the USMCA have set a positive course for continued collaboration.
By connecting hundreds of buyers and sellers and reaffirming diplomatic commitments, the USDA has helped secure and expand a critical market for American farmers and ranchers. The mission’s success is a clear indicator that proactive engagement and strong relationships are the keys to navigating the complexities of global trade and ensuring a prosperous future for American agriculture. The path forward is one of continued partnership, working together to overcome challenges and unlock new opportunities.
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