Key Takeaways
- Mexico has declared ineffective measures restricting genetically engineered (GE) corn following a USMCA dispute settlement.
- This action protects approximately $5.6 billion in U.S. corn exports to Mexico.
- USDA and USTR will continue monitoring Mexico’s compliance with USMCA commitments.
- Corn Refiners Association (CRA) welcomes the move and emphasizes the importance of science-based trade obligations.
- The 2023 “Corn Decree” had initially sought to phase out GE corn in various food uses.
USDA Commends Mexico’s Compliance with USMCA Ruling
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a statement commending Mexico’s decision to declare ineffective measures concerning genetically engineered (GE) corn that the United States successfully challenged under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The move safeguards approximately $5.6 billion in U.S. corn exports to Mexico.
Kailee Buller, Chief of Staff of the USDA, highlighted the significance of the decision: “Mexico’s action declaring ineffective these GE corn measures is a major victory for U.S. farmers and a testament to President Trump’s decisive leadership on trade. Prompted by President Trump’s leadership and a USMCA panel ruling, Mexico’s action in response to the United States’ successful challenge in the USMCA litigation protects billions of dollars in U.S. exports.”
Buller reaffirmed the USDA’s commitment to advocating for U.S. farmers and ensuring fair trade practices in agricultural biotechnology.
Corn Refiners Association Applauds Market Access Restoration
Following Mexico’s decision, Corn Refiners Association (CRA) President and CEO John Bode welcomed the development, stating: “Mexico’s actions are a strong step toward restoring market access for genetically engineered corn. We are encouraged to see the Sheinbaum Administration respect the science-based obligations in USMCA and the USMCA dispute settlement process.”
Bode further emphasized the safety of biotechnology-based crops and the role of science in trade agreements: “Science has proven crops produced using biotechnology to be safe, and we welcome the opportunity to share American harvests with consumers in search of quality, affordable food. CRA appreciates efforts to resolve bilateral trade irritants so we can work together toward a productive six-year review of USMCA.”
Background on Mexico’s 2023 Corn Decree
In 2023, former Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador issued a “Corn Decree” that sought to:
- Ban the use of GE corn in tortilla dough.
- Phase out GE corn in other food uses, including animal feed.
