Mexico's Commitment to Non-GMO White Corn

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) – Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced plans to protect non-genetically modified white corn in the coming days, emphasizing its importance to biodiversity and public health during a press conference.

> "We have an obligation to ensure that the white corn cultivated in Mexico is not genetically-modified," Sheinbaum stated.

She noted that her predecessor, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, had proposed safeguarding Mexico's corn varieties, which is expected to be discussed in Congress soon.

Mexico is self-sufficient in white corn, essential for making the traditional tortilla, but it imports genetically-modified yellow corn mainly for livestock feed. Previous efforts by Lopez Obrador to limit these imports sparked disputes under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

With over 60 native corn varieties, corn is central to Mexican cuisine and holds significant cultural importance from pre-Hispanic times.

Sheinbaum highlighted the need to protect seed quality to maintain local agricultural capabilities.

A dispute resolution panel under USMCA is anticipated to rule on Mexico's restrictions on genetically-modified corn imports, with a final report expected by November 29. Revisiting the USMCA is scheduled for 2026, where Sheinbaum's government will negotiate with the incoming administration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump.