The United States won a key trade dispute over genetically modified (GM) corn with Mexico. A U.S.-Mexico-Canada Free Trade Agreement (USMCA) panel ruled against Mexico’s planned ban on GM corn for human consumption. U.S. corn growers welcomed the decision as a significant victory. While Mexico’s Economy Department disagreed, citing public health and Indigenous rights, it pledged to comply with the ruling.

Mexico imports $3 billion of U.S. GM corn annually, primarily as livestock feed. It proposed banning it for human consumption in 2020, with potential future restrictions on animal feed. The U.S. Trade Representative argued the ban lacked scientific basis and violated trade agreements/ The panel upheld these claims.

Although Mexico revised its rules in 2023 to remove a fixed timeline for replacing GM feed corn, it retained language suggesting a gradual phase-out. Critics warned this could escalate meat prices amidst inflation.

The National Corn Growers Association praised the advocacy that ensured continued market access. Mexico plans further studies on health impacts before enacting future restrictions.

Read more on the USMCA panel ruling on GM corn here.