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Mexico has suggested a ban of genetically modified corn for
human consumption and says it could eventually ban it for animal
feed as well. The U.S. Trade Representative's office announced
this week it has called for consultations with Mexico over the
dispute. If the issue isn’t resolved, it could lead to trade
sanctions for violating the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement.
Mexican officials have said that genetically modified corn may
have health effects, but has not provided any evidence.
“When we first heard about it we thought they can’t be serious,
because it is just an incredible potential change and would be
absolutely devastating to the Mexican economy,” said Collin
Waters, director of exports and logistics with the Illinois Corn
Growers Association.
Mexico has been importing genetically modified feed corn for
years, buying about $3 billion worth annually. Illinois is one
of the leading corn producers in the country.
The Mexican economy minister, who spoke with the U.S. Trade
Representative’s Office in February, has said Mexico already
produces more of the white corn used for tortillas than it
consumes, while corn imported from the U.S. is for livestock
feed and industrial uses.
More than 90% of corn grown in the U.S. is genetically modified,
according to the National Corn Growers Association. U.S.
officials have criticized Mexico’s new policy as not being
proven, as GMO products have long been consumed safely.
“Illinois corn farmers are happy to see the USTR take steps to
hold Mexico to the terms they agreed to when negotiating the
U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement for trade,” said Illinois Corn
Growers Association president Matt Rush in a statement.
“Resolution of this trade dispute will bring certainty to the
marketplace that Illinois corn farmers need.”
Kevin Bessler reports on statewide issues in
Illinois for the Center Square. He has over 30 years of
experience in radio news reporting throughout the Midwest.
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