Trade-dispute panel finds Mexico export restrictions on US genetically modified corn violate USMCA – JURIST
A trade-dispute panel ruled on Friday that Mexico’s export restrictions on US genetically modified corn violated the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
The conflict stems from a modified corn decree published by Mexico in 2023. The corn decree established an immediate ban on the use of genetically engineered corn in dough and tortillas and instructed Mexican government agencies to gradually end the use of genetically engineered corn in animal feed and other products.
The panel evaluating Mexico’s restrictions on genetically modified corn determined that the restrictions were not based on science and violated the market access required by the USMCA. The USMCA seeks to create balanced, reciprocal trade and grow the economy in North America.
US Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced the US’s victory in the trade dispute. Ambassador Tai stated that the decision reaffirmed US concerns about Mexico’s biotechnology policies.
Mexico’s stated purpose for its 2023 corn decree was to “protect the rights to health and a healthy environment” and “to ensure the nutritious, sufficient and quality diet.” The US has maintained its stance that Mexico’s biotechnology policies are not based on scientific data.
Several advocacy groups are proponents of Mexico’s corn decree. These groups oppose US challenges to export restrictions and have implored the US to respect Mexico’s sovereignty. Others believe that the US has a right to challenge the restrictions as a party to the USMCA
Ambassador Doug McKalip stated that the trade-dispute panel’s decision “supports our efforts to maintain a strong, science- and rules-based trade, which serves as the foundation of the USMCA as it was agreed to by all parties.
