Mexico seeks to veto the consumption of transgenic corn, what do Canada and the US think?

Canada announced on Friday that it will join dispute resolution consultations called for by USA at the beginning of the month before the plans of Mexico to ban the import of genetically modified corn.

Mexico wants to restrict GM corn for human consumption and eventually ban it for animal feed as well, something its two northern partners say would hurt trade. They also believe that it would violate the requirements of the previous North American Free Trade Agreement (USMCA) that any health or safety standards be based on scientific evidence.

Hence, Washington decided on June 3 to resort to consultations, provided for in the framework of the Treaty between Mexico, the United States and Canada. (USMCA), after talks with the Mexican government failed to yield results. American farmers are concerned about the possible loss of the largest export market for their cornsince Mexico has been importing transgenic corn from the United States for years for an amount of about US$ 3,000 million annually.

“Canada shares the United States’ concern that Mexico’s measures are not scientifically supported and may unnecessarily disrupt trade in the North American market.” The Ministry of Agriculture and International Trade indicated in a joint statement on Friday.

Mexico argues that GM maize can have health effects, even when used as fodder, but has yet to provide evidence. Previously, the Mexican government had shown its desire to avoid a confrontation with USA because of the corn issue, but not enough to give up any ban entirely.

The group of experts would have approximately half a year to study the complaint and make its conclusions known. If it is determined that Mexico has violated the USMCA, trade sanctions could be imposed.

Mexico is the main importer of US yellow corn, most of it genetically modified. Almost all of it goes to feed cattle, pigs and chickens in Mexico, since it does not grow enough corn fodder. Corn destined for human consumption in Mexico is almost entirely white corn grown in the country, although corn chips or other processed products may contain genetically modified corn.

In February, the Ministry of Economy of Mexico issued new regulations and determined that the gradual substitution of genetically modified corn for animal feed and industrial use for human food would take place, but without setting any date to do so.

The Ministry of Economy of Mexico It has expressed that the decisions of the Mexican authorities will not imply “restrictions on trade, as indicated in the request for consultations” from the United States.

“Far from it, the transition will take place gradually and sustainably, strengthening the competitiveness and productivity of the Mexican countryside in full respect of the international commitments signed by Mexico”maintains the government.

The United States and Canada also have an open dispute with Mexico over energy issues. Washington maintains that Mexico unfairly favors state-owned electricity and oil companies over US competition and clean energies.