Mexico to Protect Non-Genetically Modified White Corn Under Constitution
In a bold move, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced plans to safeguard the country’s non-genetically modified white corn under the constitution. This initiative aims to preserve biodiversity and ensure the health of Mexican citizens.
Sheinbaum revealed that her predecessor, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, had already submitted a proposal to protect Mexico’s corn varieties. The upcoming discussions in Congress will be crucial for the future of white corn cultivation in the country.
While Mexico produces its own white corn for staple foods like tortillas, it imports genetically-modified yellow corn from the United States for livestock feed. This practice has been a point of contention, with Lopez Obrador previously attempting to limit the import of genetically-modified corn.
With over 60 native varieties of corn, Mexico has a rich agricultural heritage that must be preserved. Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of maintaining the quality of seeds used by farmers to sustain local agricultural production.
The ongoing dispute over genetically-modified corn imports is expected to be resolved by a panel under the United States-Mexico-Canada trade agreement, with a final decision anticipated by Nov. 29. Additionally, the USMCA is set for a revision in 2026, providing an opportunity for Sheinbaum’s administration to negotiate terms with the incoming U.S. government.
