City of Roma Issues RFQ for Phytosanitary Inspection Site Consulting Services
Strengthening Cross-Border Trade and Agricultural Inspection Capacity
The City of Roma, Texas has officially released a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) seeking an experienced Mexico-based consultant or consulting firm to support the establishment of a phytosanitary inspection site at the Las Américas Roma Logistics & Industrial Park.
This initiative represents a major step forward in enhancing cross-border trade efficiency, regulatory coordination, and agricultural inspection capabilities between the United States and Mexico.
Why This Matters
Phytosanitary inspection sites play a critical role in ensuring agricultural products meet health and safety standards while facilitating faster, more reliable cross-border commerce. By advancing this project, the City of Roma aims to:
- Strengthen binational trade operations
- Improve regulatory coordination with Mexican federal authorities
- Support regional economic development and logistics infrastructure
If regulatory or logistical constraints prevent establishment in Roma, Texas, the selected consultant will instead assist in developing a corresponding facility in Ciudad Miguel Alemán, Tamaulipas.
Scope of the RFQ
The selected consultant will work closely with the City of Roma to navigate regulatory requirements and coordinate with key Mexican authorities, including:
- SENASICA (Servicio Nacional de Sanidad, Inocuidad y Calidad Agroalimentaria)
- Secretaría de Agricultura y Desarrollo Rural (SADER)
- ANAM (Agencia Nacional de Aduanas de México)
The consultant’s responsibilities will include regulatory analysis, preparation of application materials, stakeholder coordination, and alignment with the existing U.S.–Mexico Joint Inspection Program currently operating at the site.
Key Project Objectives
The consultant will assist the City in:
- Navigating the regulatory framework for establishing a phytosanitary inspection site
- Coordinating with Mexican federal agencies and stakeholders
- Securing necessary legal approvals
- Identifying regulatory obstacles and proposing solutions
- Ensuring compatibility with existing U.S. and Mexican inspection programs
Deliverables
Expected deliverables include:
- Documentation confirming site approval in either Roma, TX or Ciudad Miguel Alemán, Tamaulipas
- Written progress reports and regulatory summaries
- Stakeholder meeting documentation and action plans
Consultant Qualifications
Qualified respondents must demonstrate:
- A minimum of 10 years of experience in regulatory consulting, public affairs, or international trade
- Proven experience with binational or cross-border initiatives
- Specific expertise with ANAM, SENASICA, and phytosanitary inspection procedures
- Successful completion of similar projects
Evaluation Criteria
Submissions will be evaluated based on the following weighted factors:
- Relevant experience and track record – 40%
- Knowledge of binational trade and regulatory frameworks – 40%
- Approach and methodology – 20%
Cost will be negotiated with the most qualified respondent following selection.
Submission Details
Interested consultants must submit the following in both English and Spanish:
- Cover letter
- Resume/CV or company profile
- Detailed project approach and methodology
- At least three professional references
📧 Submissions should be emailed to:
Alejandro Barrera
City Manager, City of Roma
Email: abarrera@cityofroma.net
Phone: (956) 849-1411
🗓 Submission Deadline: February 27, 2026
Project Timeline at a Glance
- RFQ Release: February 11, 2026
- Submission Deadline: February 27, 2026
- City Council Selection: March 2026 Regular Meeting
- Anticipated Start Date: April 2026
- Initial Contract Term: 1 year, renewable annually based on progress
Looking Ahead
This RFQ reflects the City of Roma’s continued commitment to economic development, international cooperation, and modern trade infrastructure. Qualified firms with expertise in cross-border regulatory processes are encouraged to submit and help shape the future of agricultural inspection and commerce in the Roma region.
For full RFQ details, interested parties should refer to the official RFQ document or contact the City Manager’s office directly.