Mexico’s agriculture ministry recently revealed its national corn production estimates for this year, projecting about 28.5 million metric tonnes. The new data suggests a growth of over two million metric tonnes from the previous year. This increase comprises both white and yellow corn varieties and is largely attributed to the government’s initiative providing free fertilizer to small-scale farmers.
White corn, a critical ingredient in the country’s staple food, tortillas, is predicted to reach a production level of 24.9 million metric tonnes. The yield for yellow corn, another significant variety, could rise to 3.61 million metric tonnes, according to official statistics.
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However, this escalating corn production coincides with an ongoing disagreement involving Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The dispute centers around Mexico’s efforts to curtail the use of genetically modified (GM) corn, particularly within the country’s food chain. Each year, Mexico imports about US$5 billion worth of US corn, most of which is GM yellow corn typically used as livestock feed.
The Mexican government has issued a decree urging the gradual replacement of GM corn and has called for a prohibition on its use in tortillas or dough. The United States and Canada, both major trading partners, have responded by requesting trade dispute settlement consultations under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). They argue that Mexico’s plan lacks scientific backing.
Nonetheless, Mexico has defended its position, vowing to challenge these arguments. The government has stated that the ban will not impact trade relations with the United States, emphasizing its commitment to national food security and biodiversity over foreign trade pressures.
These updates provide a fascinating look into the intersection of national agricultural policies, international trade relations, and the growing debate around GM crops’ role in global food systems. As Mexico continues to balance these complex factors, its actions could set precedents for other countries grappling with similar issues.
This news is based on the Malay Mail.
