Mexico lifts GM corn restrictions following USMCA panel ruling

The Mexican government has suspended key provisions restricting genetically modified (GM) corn following a ruling by a USMCA dispute panel. The decision overturns a decree issued by former President López Obrador that aimed to protect native corn species.

The resolution was published in the Federal Official Gazette (DOF) and signed by Minister of Economy Marcelo Ebrard, in compliance with the panel’s recommendations. The dispute originated after the United States filed a complaint under USMCA’s Chapter 31 on dispute resolution, arguing that Mexico’s restrictions on GM corn, as outlined in a decree published on Feb.13, 2023, by former president López Obrador, violated trade commitments under Chapters 2 and 9 of the agreement. The United States requested a panel in August 2023, which was officially established that same month. The case, registered as Mexico - Measures Relating to Genetically Modified Corn (MEX-USA-2023-31-01), resulted in a final ruling issued on Dec. 20, 2024. The panel recommended that Mexico align its measures with USMCA obligations.

In response, the Mexican government has nullified the application of Art. 6 (Section II), 7, and 8 of the 2023 decree, effectively lifting the restrictions. Any administrative acts referencing the repealed provisions will also be rendered void, says the publication. 

The decree to prohibit GMO corn imports was aimed at ensuring native corn species and protecting public health due to the government's concerns over the potential negative health impact of glyphosate, a herbicide that GMO corn is resistant to. According to the Mexican government, genetically modified corn has been altered to include a gene that allows it to withstand glyphosate applications and/or another gene that provides tolerance to pests. GM corn resistant to glyphosate is unaffected by the herbicide, leading to excessive applications, the government says. Meanwhile, pest-tolerant GM corn produces toxin-containing crystals that remain present in the grain intended for consumption.