Introduction
The US has reopened two rail crossings between Texas and Mexico after a temporary closure of five days. This closure was initiated to redeploy border personnel in response to increasing migrant crossings, as stated by the Biden administration. The reopening comes after the closures led to concerns from railroads, the agriculture industry, and some lawmakers regarding the negative impact on export trade.
Positive Response from Railway Association
Ian Jefferies, CEO of the Association of American Railroads, commended the reopening of the crossings. He criticized the initial closures, describing them as an ineffective measure to enhance law enforcement capacity. Jefferies emphasized the importance of maintaining secure and reliable service in collaboration with CBP (Customs and Border Protection) to fulfill customer needs and national requirements.
Closure and Record High Migrant Crossings
The Biden administration had closed the trade routes due to a significant surge in migrant crossings. On Monday, the US Border Patrol apprehended approximately 10,800 migrants at the southwest border, marking a potential single-day record high. The closure prompted concern from agricultural sectors, such as corn, milk, rice, and soybean producers. They estimated potential losses of nearly 1 million bushels of grain exports daily, in addition to export potential for various other agricultural products.
Impact on Grain and Oilseed Exports
The closure of crossings into Mexico was deemed unacceptable by industry representatives. They highlighted the significant impact on the flow of grain and oilseeds, both for human consumption and livestock feed, to one of the United States’ crucial export markets and trading partners.
Remaining Suspensions
Despite the reopening of rail crossings, the Eagle Pass vehicular processing and San Diego San Ysidro’s Pedestrian West operations remain suspended, according to the CBP. Additionally, port of entry operations at Lukeville, Arizona, and Morely Gate in Nogales, Arizona continue to be temporarily suspended.