Corn trade clash - US vs Mexico showdown

Jul 23, 2024

Outcome of biotech corn ban awaits panel’s report

By Farms.com

The dispute over the Mexican ban on US biotech corn, which challenges established scientific consensus, is approaching a decisive phase.

Nancy Martinez, representing the National Corn Growers Association, recently spoke on the Indiana Ag Policy Podcast about the developments in this case. She noted that the US has robustly defended its position, citing a lack of sufficient risk assessment by Mexico before imposing the ban.

This issue is under deliberation by a dispute settlement panel formed under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement, with a crucial report slated for release in November.

The dispute’s resolution will significantly influence not just the two nations' agricultural trade but also the credibility of scientific research in policymaking internationally.

If the panel rules against the US, it could undermine over 1,700 studies supporting biotech corn’s safety and discourage investments in biotech advancements.

The agricultural and biotech communities are closely monitoring this case, hoping for a resolution that reinforces the integration of science in international trade regulations.

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