Mexico lifts restrictions on GM corn imports

The Mexican government lifts restrictions on the use of genetically modified (GM) corn after the intervention of the international dispute settlement commission USMCA. The decision overturns a decree issued by former President Lopez Obrador. The resolution was published in the Federal Official Gazette (DOF) and signed by Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard.

The dispute arose after the United States filed a complaint with the USMCA, alleging that Mexico’s restrictions on GMO corn outlined in the 2023 decree violate trade agreements. As a result, the commission recommended that Mexico bring its measures into compliance with its USMCA obligations.

As a reminder, the Lopez Obrador GMO corn import ban decree was aimed at preserving local crop species and protecting consumers. There was concern about the potential adverse health effects of glyphosate, an herbicide to which GMO corn is resistant. It was also noted that pest-resistant GMO corn contains toxins that remain in the grain intended for consumption.

U.S. interest in the issue of further corn shipments to the Mexican market is very high. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Mexico imported $5.4 billion worth of corn from the country in 2024, making it the top destination for U.S. exports of the crop grain.

Tags: corn, Mexico