Why does Mexico want to ban GMO corn?

Mexico’s ban on biotech corn has left the U.S. ag industry baffled. Many U.S. ag industry leaders argue that Mexico’s stringent regulations on GMO corn are not based on science. However, experts with Ambrook Research explain that the regulation is not a matter of human health, but rather a way to prevent genetically modified crops from threatening the nation’s cultural food heritage.

In early 2023, the USMCA trade partner introduced a 50% tariff on white corn imports and modified regulations to ensure tortilla makers use only non-genetically modified white corn.

In Mexico, corn is more than just a commodity crop. It is considered a big part of heritage, culture, and tradition. The country is home to more than 50 native corn varieties, and Mexican leaders believe that incredible biodiversity could be threatened if genetically modified crops are introduced.

Related Stories
USDA Undersecretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg joined us with a recap of the Malaysia trade mission and a look at USDA’s broader trade strategy moving forward.
Mike Steenhoek of the Soy Transportation Coalition shares how extreme winter weather is affecting the ag transportation network and what producers should keep in mind as conditions slowly improve.
Strong White House backing supports ethanol demand, but timing now hinges on Congress resolving procedural — at the same time as they push toward a spending bill to avert another federal government shutdown.
Corn and soybean exports continue to anchor weekly inspection totals, with China maintaining a visible role, while wheat and sorghum remain more dependent on regional and seasonal demand shifts.
Lewis Williamson of HTS Commodities joined us with an update on the historic winter storm impacts and his outlook on today’s ag markets.
Marilyn Schlake with the UNL Department of Agricultural Economics joined us for a closer look at the evolving role of livestock sale barns.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Lewis Williamson with HTS Commodities discusses current farmer sentiment, trade considerations, and the market factors shaping the outlook for the upcoming planting season.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln President Dr. Jeffrey Gold talks about heart health and preventive care for viewers in rural communities.
Jeramy Stephens of National Land Realty breaks down current trends in the farmland real estate market and how landowners should consider water availability and its impact on land values as they plan for the year ahead.
The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo continues through Saturday, showcasing livestock, youth involvement, and agricultural talent, with the Junior Sale of Champions serving as the culmination of the 23-day event.
We caught up with John Deere’s Hay & Forage Got-To Market Manager Kaylene Ballesteros to learn how tech is evolving how producers make hay, from baling efficiency to operator confidence.
U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas discusses expected changes to the 45Z tax credit and what they could mean for agriculture and rural America.