On Tuesday, Mexico’s lower house of Congress approved a constitutional reform that officially bans the planting of genetically modified (GM) corn. This decision is expected to exacerbate tensions with the United States, especially following the recent resolution of a trade dispute.
Key Highlights:
Background of the Reform:
The initiative, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, follows a ruling by a trade-dispute panel in December, which found that Mexico’s restrictions on GM corn violated the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
In response to this ruling, Mexico lifted its import restrictions on GM corn intended for human consumption, livestock feed, and industrial uses.
Cultural Significance:
Mexico, recognized as the birthplace of modern corn, has long prohibited the commercial planting of GM corn, citing concerns about contamination of native corn strains. Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of native corn as an “element of national identity.”
The new constitutional reform, which passed with 409 votes in favor and 69 against, officially prohibits the planting of GM corn in Mexico.
Regulatory Framework:
The reform stipulates that any use of GM corn must be evaluated to ensure it poses no threats to Mexico’s biosecurity, health, and biocultural heritage.
Next Steps:
The reform will now advance to the Senate for final approval.
Economic Implications:
Mexico imports approximately $5 billion worth of U.S. GM corn annually, primarily for livestock feed. Analysts express concern that this ban could lead to further disputes with the U.S., as it addresses not only the planting of GM corn but also its use.
Potential U.S. Response:
The Agricultural Markets Consulting Group (GCMA) highlighted that the government’s firm stance against GM corn could create “uncertainty” in U.S.-Mexico relations, particularly given that the U.S. is Mexico’s main source of yellow corn imports.
The GCMA warned that continued insistence on these restrictions could provoke retaliatory measures from the U.S. government.