FR 2025-00995

The document from the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), a branch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, has formally added Panama and Costa Rica to its list of regions affected by screwworm. This decision stems from confirmed cases of screwworm in these countries, with the addition dates being July 12, 2021, for Panama and August 21, 2023, for Costa Rica. Consequently, animals such as horses, ruminants, swine, and dogs from these regions must adhere to specific import requirements if they are to enter the United States. These requirements are designed to prevent screwworm from spreading within U.S. borders.

Summary of the Document

The addition of Panama and Costa Rica to the list signifies that new measures are in place for animals imported from these regions. Animal imports will now have to undergo inspections and potentially receive treatments to mitigate the risk of importing screwworm into the United States. The confirmation of screwworm in both countries came after reports from international veterinary authorities, emphasizing the need to protect U.S. livestock and domestic animals from this parasitic infestation.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One notable concern is the absence of information regarding the potential costs or budgetary implications linked to these changes. There is no disclosure of how these new restrictions might impact trade or the economy, especially concerning industries involved with animal importation. While these steps are crucial for preventing the spread of screwworm, the document lacks mention of any financial assistance or support for the affected regions to facilitate compliance or eradicate the pest effectively.

Furthermore, the document includes references to specific regulatory sections, such as "§ 93.308(a)(3)," which might be difficult for individuals unfamiliar with such legal terminology to comprehend without additional context or explanation. Finally, it is unclear under what conditions a region might be removed from the list once added, leaving stakeholders without guidance on the path to potential resolution.

Impact on the Public

Broadly, the public may experience both positive and negative impacts due to these measures. On the positive side, these actions are intended to protect U.S. agriculture and domestic animals from a harmful pest, ultimately benefiting the overall public by safeguarding food supply integrity and animal health. However, the broader public might face increased costs for certain animal products, as compliance with import restrictions and inspections could lead to higher operational costs for importers that may be passed down to consumers.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For stakeholders directly involved, such as importers and exporters of livestock from Panama and Costa Rica, these measures could mean substantial changes in their business operations. Importers might face delays due to rigorous inspection processes and potential quarantines, which could strain logistics and increase operational costs. Exporters from these regions may find their market access limited, impacting their economic stability.

There is also a lack of clarity regarding support for these regions as they work to control or eliminate the screwworm threat, potentially leaving local stakeholders to manage the issue without adequate resources or assistance. This absence of guidance or support could discourage efforts to eradicate screwworm efficiently, impacting international trade relationships.

Overall, while the document addresses critical public health and animal welfare issues, it raises several areas of concern and potential impacts, both domestically and internationally.