By Alice McFarlane

Canada Grains Council welcomes decision on GM corn

Jan 6, 2025 | 4:00 PM

Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) panel ruling determined the restrictions Mexico placed on genetically modified (GM) corn were not scientifically justified

The Canada Grains Council (CGC) said predictable and science-based trade rules are the foundation of a stable and secure food supply across North America.

Krista Thomas, Vice-President, Trade Policy and Seed Innovation for CGC said for Canadian farmers and grain exporters, reliable access to international markets can mean the difference between success and failure.

“When major trading partners like Mexico veer away from science-based rules, it creates uncertainty for farmers who rely on GM crops to run their farms efficiently, stay profitable, and take care of the environment,” Thomas said. “GM crops enable farming practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve soil health.”

The dispute centered on Mexico’s 2023 presidential decree, which banned the use of GM corn in dough and tortillas and proposed a phased reduction of GM corn in animal feed and other food uses.

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Thomas said the panel found the measures were not based on international standards or guidelines and noted that Mexico failed to conduct a risk assessment before issuing the decree.

“Canadian officials and technical experts played a key role in this dispute. Our sector deeply values the strong support for international standards and risk assessment principles, in line with WTO and CUSMA commitments,” she said.

The case highlights the importance of collaboration among CUSMA partners to support North America’s integrated agricultural supply chains, according to Thomas.

“We’re eager to see Canada, Mexico, and the United States continue their efforts to support innovation and sustainable practices in North American agriculture.”

The CUMSA trade agreement between Canada, the United States, and Mexico went into effect in July 2020.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @farmnewsNOW