What have I just done? ALMO

During the past week, Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, met with the President of Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (“AMLO”) to discuss bilateral trade relations and specifically, the impact of the proposed ban on GM corn imported from the U.S.

Following the meeting, the USDA issued a statement on November 28th, noting that the intention to ban imports of all GM corn by January 2024 has the potential to disrupt trade, harm farmers on both sides of the border and significantly increase costs to consumers in Mexico. Bilateral trade attained $63 Billion in 2021 and the unjustified action by Mexico would jeopardize inter-nation commerce and investment.

Vilsack stated, “We must find a way forward, soon and I emphasize, in no uncertain terms that, absent an acceptable resolution of the issue, the U.S. Government will be forced to consider all options, including taking formal steps to enforce our legal rights under the USMCA.”

The problem now is how AMLO can withdraw from the early commitment without losing face.  He has already issued a statement recognizing the importance of importation of yellow corn with respect to food security in Mexico. His latest re-interpretation of the proposed ban is that it will not apply to yellow maize imported for livestock feed.  He has encouraged dialogue regarding the safety of GM products, having ignored his scientific advisors. He has apparently rejected the reality that GM technology is innocuous based on over three decades of research and commercial acceptance.  It is becoming abundantly clear to AMLO that the consequences of his brainstorm will be deleterious to his Nation and for his political future.