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First trade mission of its kind underscores growing leadership of women
LAS CRUCES, N.M. — In a first-of-its-kind effort emphasizing the growing role of women in the cattle industry, the New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA) partnered with the Kansas Department of Agriculture to host an all-women delegation of six cattle producers from Chihuahua, Mexico, for a multi-state trade mission focused on U.S. beef cattle genetics.
Women play an increasingly important role in agriculture, contributing significantly to farm and ranch operations worldwide, yet they remain underrepresented in international trade missions and leadership opportunities in the livestock sector. This mission, held during the International Year of the Woman Farmer and Women’s History Month, underscores the expanding leadership and influence of women in agriculture across borders.
The delegation represented Mujeres Ganaderas de México (MUGAM; “Cattlewomen of Mexico”) and traveled through New Mexico and Kansas March 2-4 to strengthen commercial relationships and explore opportunities to import U.S. beef genetics. The mission was made possible through the state departments of agriculture’s membership in U.S. Livestock Genetics Export, Inc., with funding support from the USDA Market Access Program.
“I had an outstanding experience on this trade mission that exceeded expectations,” said a delegation member and rancher Ana Maria Baeza. “From touring ranches to exchanging knowledge with producers, the visit created meaningful connections, strengthened cultural and commercial ties, and opened the door to future collaboration.”
The visit began in New Mexico, where the group toured cattle ranches, attended a bull sale, and met with industry leaders from the New Mexico Beef Council and the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association, as well as producers from across the region. The delegation also had the opportunity to connect with outstanding women leaders in New Mexico agriculture who advance the industry on both sides of the border.
“Mexico is a vital trading partner for New Mexico agriculture,” said Jeff Witte, New Mexico Secretary of Agriculture. “Welcoming this delegation of women leaders in the cattle industry highlights the strength of our international partnerships and the growing leadership of women in agriculture. Missions like this help build relationships and create new market opportunities for our producers.”
Throughout the tours, participants discussed breeding objectives, bloodlines and export requirements while exploring potential opportunities for live animals and genetics. Several members of the delegation plan to return to New Mexico in April to participate in a bull sale and purchase U.S. cattle genetics, further strengthening trade relationships established during the mission.
NMDA supports New Mexico agriculture by connecting producers with international buyers and expanding global market opportunities.
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