Mexico Passes Constitutional Ban on Genetically Modified Corn Farming

On Tuesday, Mexico’s lower house of Congress approved a constitutional reform to ban the cultivation of genetically modified (GM) corn, a move that may heighten tensions with the United States after the resolution of a trade dispute, analysts have suggested.
This initiative, proposed by President Claudia Sheinbaum, comes after a trade dispute panel ruled in December that Mexico’s restrictions on GM corn, primarily imported from the U.S., were in violation of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Following the panel’s decision, Mexico lifted its import restrictions on GM corn for human consumption, livestock feed, and industrial use.
Mexico, the origin of modern corn, had already banned the commercial planting of GM corn, citing concerns that it would contaminate native corn varieties. Many experts argue that GM corn, like other genetically modified foods, presents significant risks to both human health and the environment. GM crops are often engineered to withstand chemical herbicides and pesticides, leading to increased use of these chemicals, which can harm soil, water, and biodiversity. The heavy use of herbicides like glyphosate, associated with GM crops, has been linked to soil degradation and harmful effects on beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies. Additionally, the modification of crops can lead to the development of resistant pests and weeds, further increasing the need for chemical interventions.
Genetically modified foods also raise concerns about food safety. There is still debate about their long-term health impacts, as many studies have not been able to conclusively demonstrate the safety of consuming GM foods over an extended period. Some studies suggest possible links between GM foods and allergic reactions, immune system disruptions, and even the transfer of antibiotic-resistant genes. Furthermore, the lack of proper labeling of GM foods means consumers cannot make fully informed choices about what they are eating.
In light of these concerns, Sheinbaum has committed to formally prohibiting the planting of GM corn through a constitutional amendment.
The reform, approved with 409 votes in favor and 69 against, designates native corn as a “national identity” symbol and officially bans the cultivation of GM corn within the country.
The reform’s text states, “Any other use of genetically modified corn must be evaluated … to ensure it poses no threats to Mexico’s biosecurity, health, and biocultural heritage.”
The reform will now be sent to the Senate for final approval.
Mexico imports around $5 billion worth of U.S. GM corn annually, mostly for livestock feed.
Some analysts warn that the reform could reignite controversy with the U.S. because it also addresses the use of GM corn, not just its cultivation.
The Agricultural Markets Consulting Group (GCMA), a prominent consultancy in Mexico, stated that the government’s decision to take a stronger stance against GM corn creates “uncertainty” in its relationship with the U.S., the primary source of yellow corn imports used for livestock feed.
The GCMA further noted that Mexico’s persistence with these restrictions, despite the USMCA panel’s ruling, could prompt retaliatory actions from the U.S. government.