In 2020, the President of Mexico, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador (AMLO) announced an intending ban on importation of genetically modified (GM) corn for human consumption together with a blanket prohibition on the use of glyphosate.  This decree, due to take effect in 2024, would have endangered the export of 17 million metric tons of U.S. corn to Mexico each year.  Following protests from the U. S., Mexico offered to extend the ban to 2025. This concession was summarily rejected rejected by the U. S.

Unless rescinded or substantially modified the United States Trade Representative (USTR), Ambassador Katherine Tai will submit the ban to a dispute settlement process under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement on trade

Doug McKalip, the Chief Agricultural Trade Negotiator, has demanded that Mexico provide scientific proof to justify the proposed ban.  In response, Raquel Buenrostro, Secretary of the Economy for the government of Mexico, stated that if the Federal Commission for Protection Against Sanitary Risks agrees that GMO corn does not present a health hazard, importation will be permitted.

The decree by AMLO was precipitous, unjustified and was an expression of his populist philosophy.  It would appear that responsible officials in Mexico, cognizant of the unintended consequences of the decree, have attempted to backtrack.  Firm action by the USDA and the Office of the USTR should result in an agreement favorable to the U.S. that will allow continued export of GM yellow corn to Mexico and at the same time, save face for AMLO and the Government of our USMCA partner.