**Mexico Faces Potential Loss in Genetically Modified Corn Dispute with the U.S.**
The Mexican government, through its Economy Secretary, Marcelo Ebrard, anticipates a potential loss in its trade dispute with the United States over genetically modified corn, with a decision expected by December 14, 2024. The dispute centers around a Mexican decree from February 2023, under former President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, which banned the import, use, and distribution of genetically modified corn for both human consumption and animal feed, alongside the herbicide glyphosate.
Ebrard, speaking at an international seminar hosted by the College of Mexico, indicated that the preliminary results have not been favorable for Mexico. “We’re nearing the end of the process. While the preliminary findings might not favor us, the important thing is that the system is working,” he stated. The final decision from the dispute panel is awaited with cautious anticipation, as additional Mexican comments submitted in November could still influence the outcome.
The newly-inaugurated President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, reinforced Mexico’s stance against genetically modified corn during her inaugural address, pledging to advance food self-sufficiency and halt the cultivation of such crops. In contrast, U.S. legislators have urged their government to prioritize addressing this ban due to its potential impact on American agricultural exports, particularly given Mexico’s reliance as a top trade partner and market for U.S. corn, the vast majority of which is genetically modified.
**Secondary Article: U.S. Lawmakers Push for Dialogue on Genetically Modified Corn Restrictions**
Amid rising tensions over Mexico’s decree on genetically modified corn, U.S. lawmakers have reached out to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, calling for continued collaboration with Mexican counterparts. The U.S., where over 90% of corn is genetically modified, views the ban as a significant barrier, causing uncertainty among American farmers and agriculture businesses.
The dialogue with Mexican Agriculture Secretary Julio Berdegué is seen as crucial in navigating the legal complexities of Mexico’s ongoing regulatory landscape, which includes the potential progression of legislation to uphold the existing ban. U.S. Congress members, primarily Republican, highlighted the economic implications for states like Iowa, Ohio, and Wisconsin, urging the need for clarity on how these trade barriers could escalate if unresolved.
This heightened bilateral engagement underscores the importance of sustainable agriculture practices and trade policies that align with each nation’s domestic priorities, reflecting broader challenges in agricultural diplomacy under the USMCA framework.
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