Canada Grains Council Welcomes CUSMA Panel Decision on Genetically Modified Corn
Jan. 6, 2025 (Ottawa, ON) – The Canada Grains Council (CGC) welcomes the recent CUSMA panel ruling, which determined that the restrictions Mexico placed on genetically modified (GM) corn were not scientifically justified. Predictable and science-based trade rules are the foundation of a stable and secure food supply across North America.
“For Canadian farmers and grain exporters, reliable access to international markets can mean the difference between success and failure,” said Krista Thomas, Vice-President, Trade Policy and Seed Innovation for the CGC. “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.”
“GM crops enable farming practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve soil health,” she added.
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. The panel found these 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,” Thomas said. “Our sector deeply values the strong support for international standards and risk assessment principles, in line with WTO and CUSMA commitments.”
“This case highlights the importance of collaboration among CUSMA partners to support North America’s integrated agricultural supply chains,” Thomas added. “We’re eager to see Canada, Mexico, and the United States continue their efforts to support innovation and sustainable practices in North American agriculture.”
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For more information, contact:
Sandra Filion
Vice President Communications & Stakeholder Relations
(613) 277-0109 | sandra@canadagrainscouncil.ca
