By Andi Anderson
The United States recently won a dispute against Mexico’s ban on genetically modified (GM) corn imports, a decision that is particularly beneficial for corn farmers in Illinois. The U.S. Trade Representative, Katherine Tai, announced that the U.S. prevailed in its challenge under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The USMCA panel sided with the U.S. on all seven legal claims, stating that Mexico’s biotechnology policies lacked scientific backing and violated the market access provisions agreed upon in the agreement.
“The panel’s ruling reaffirms the United States’ longstanding concerns about Mexico’s biotechnology policies and their detrimental impact on U.S. agricultural exports,” said Tai. “It underscores the importance of science-based trade policies that allow American farmers and agricultural producers to compete fairly and leverage their innovation to address climate change and enhance productivity. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with the Mexican government to ensure a level playing field and provide access to safe, affordable and sustainable agricultural products on both sides of the border.”
The dispute revolved around two key aspects of Mexico’s February 2023 presidential decree on corn. The decree included an immediate ban on the use of GM corn in dough and tortillas, and plans to gradually eliminate GM corn use for other food products and animal feed. The U.S. formally challenged these measures in August 2023, leading to the formation of the USMCA panel.
Illinois agricultural leaders have praised the decision. "It was a strong ruling on behalf of U.S. corn growers and a vital export market that when we need to remain open," said Brian Duncan, President of the Illinois Farm Bureau. "It's also a victory for rules-based trade."
"As the largest corn export state in the union, Illinois corn farmers are proponents of free trade agreements and of making free trade agreements work," said Garrett Hawkins, President of the Illinois Corn Growers Association. "ICGA and the National Corn Growers Association had a significant role in fighting this unscientific Mexican government overreach and urging the U.S. Trade Representative to challenge the ban that would limit Mexican buyers’ choices and reduce U.S. market access. We are so happy to see the ruling issued in our favor and look forward to building our trade relationship with our top export customer for all types of corn.”
From January to October 2024, the U.S. exported $4.8 billion of corn to Mexico, making it the largest market for U.S. corn exports. Mexico now has 45 days to comply with the panel’s findings. The panel recommended that Mexico address its concerns through proper risk assessments based on scientific principles and constructive dialogue with all USMCA parties.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: Illinois, Business, Crops, Corn