Mexico to engage 1 mln farmers in expanding corn production

Mexico is expanding its National Native Corn Plan, which aims to reach 1 mln small-scale producers by 2028. The program is designed to increase production, preserve native corn varieties, and develop processing and marketing as part of the country’s strategy to strengthen food self-sufficiency.

Oaxaca has become one example of the program’s implementation, with corn production rising from 708.2 thsd tons in 2023 to 819.5 thsd tons in 2025, an increase of more than 15.7%. The state exceeded its government target of 800 thsd tons and, according to Governor Salomón Jara, achieved corn self-sufficiency ahead of schedule.

In 2026, the national program is expected to cover 400 thsd producers in eight states, followed by another 400 thsd in 2027 and 200 thsd in 2028. In Oaxaca, 72.3 thsd farmers from 358 municipalities have already joined the program and are organized into 1.77 thsd local farming communities.

Improving productivity is another key focus. The Oaxaca government is working with CIMMYT to develop community seed banks, provide machinery, expand post-harvest infrastructure, and promote the use of fertilizers and biological inputs. The program also seeks to preserve genetic diversity: Oaxaca is home to 32 corn races, representing more than 60% of Mexico’s corn diversity.

The program is being expanded alongside a significant increase in government support for agriculture. Oaxaca’s agricultural budget for 2026 stands at MX$1.35 bln, compared with MX$700 mln allocated in the first year of the current administration. Authorities expect support for small-scale farmers and productivity improvements to help increase domestic corn production.

Tags: corn, Mexico, Oaxaca