The U.S. is currently reviewing Mexico’s latest proposal on genetically modified corn. Ag Secretary Vilsack hopes an agreement will be finalized soon.
In December, Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai met with Mexican officials to discuss the upcoming ban. Shortly after, Mexico’s Deputy Ag Minister announced the ban would only affect genetically-modified yellow corn intended for human consumption. GMO corn for livestock would not be banned. Secretary Vilsack says that the proposal is currently being reviewed.
“It’s in the process of being reviewed. The U.S. Trade Representative Office, USDA, and others are in the process of making sure that we fully understand and appreciate exactly what has been offered. I did have a conversation with Ambassador Tai yesterday, and I think we are on track to provide a response at some point in time in the near future to Mexico. And then based on our final analysis and the response, we’ll take the next steps as appropriate, but we’re not quite there yet.”
Leaders with Farm Action say the non-GM seed is available to producers and should be considered here in the United States, adding this could lead to premiums of $0.50-$1.00 a bushel more. They say Mexico is not the first country to push back against GM corn.
