Is Mexico Banning GMO Corn to Protect Native Corn Varieties?
Mexico's move to ban genetically modified corn is a manifestation of its efforts to protect numerous native corn varieties against the global ag industry's push towards genetically modified organisms (GMOs), according to an article from Ambrook Research. Many activists are celebrating this decision, despite acknowledging the significant pressure coming from trade partners like the U.S. and Canada.
Backstory on GMO Corn in Mexico
The article says that in Mexico, corn is much more than a food crop — it's a key part of the country's heritage, culture, and traditions. It has even been listed on UNESCO's Intangible Heritage of Humanity list. The Mexican government argues glyphosate and GM corn are dangerous to human health, and seeks to introduce alternative, culturally appropriate farming practices and herbicides.
However, there is a broader issue at stake in this debate: Conflicting views of corn's role and value across different cultures. While the U.S. mainly uses corn for livestock feed and industrial use, corn plays a much more central role in Mexican diets and cultures.
Related story: Food Manufacturers Agree to Use Only non-GMO Corn in Mexico's Tortillas
Mexico is home to approximately 60 native corn varieties and these varieties are thought to be at risk of contamination or substitution by GM crops, posing a potential threat to Mexico's cultural heritage and biodiversity alike. With constant pressure from trade partners and the ag sector, fully implementing the ban on GM corn could be a long-term process. Mexico is currently unable to replace all its U.S. GM corn imports by itself.
What's Next for Mexico Regarding GMO Corn?
Despite these challenges, Mexican advocates remain committed to defending their cultural traditions, health, and ancestral ways of life by protecting the biodiversity of domesticated corn.
Recently, measures have been taken such as the introduction of a 50% tariff on white corn imports and the modification of regulatory standards to ensure tortilla makers only use non-GM white corn.
