In early May, a group of U.S. livestock genetics and agriculture leaders from Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, Idaho, and the Senepol Cattle Breeders Association visited Aguascalientes, Mexico. The purpose was to enhance trade partnerships and broaden the global reach of U.S. beef cattle genetics.
The Kansas delegation included Dr. Justin Smith, Kansas Department of Agriculture Animal Health Commissioner; Dr. John Nelson, KDA field veterinarian; and Thad Geiger from Geiger Cattle in Troy, Kansas. Mexico remains a key agricultural trade partner for Kansas, with trade reaching $1.85 billion in 2024.
This mission highlighted the importance of ongoing collaboration in livestock and genetics as global trade relationships evolve. Suzanne Ryan-Numrich, KDA Director of Ag Marketing, said: “Expanding U.S. beef cattle genetics exports and understanding Mexico’s evolving feedlot operations are essential to fostering resilient supply chains.” She added that while promoting beef cattle genetic exports is crucial, understanding the needs and priorities of Mexican counterparts is also vital.
The delegation engaged in trilateral discussions with the Confederación Nacional de Organizaciones Ganaderas and the Canadian Cattle Association. They addressed industry concerns such as trade barriers, inspection protocols, and threats like the New World screwworm—a pest that poses risks to livestock and disrupts cross-border trade.
Site visits to cattle breeding operations and regional feedlots were conducted during their visit. The delegation also participated in the Feria Nacional de San Marcos, a major agricultural expo in Mexico.
Thad Geiger remarked: “The trip gave me a deep appreciation for the resilience of Mexican cattle producers who operate successfully in challenging conditions.” He noted that trilateral discussions emphasized how closely connected industries are across borders.
This trade mission aligns with KDA’s goal to support Kansas producers and agribusinesses by creating opportunities for marketing livestock genetics domestically and internationally. These missions are supported by KDA’s membership in U.S. Livestock Genetics Export, Inc., with funding from the USDA Market Access Program.
For further details, visit KDA’s international market development webpage at agriculture.ks.gov/international or contact Ryan-Numrich at Suzanne.Numrich@ks.gov or 785-564-6704.
Information from this article can be found here.
