Dec 05, 2022

NCGA: Mexico banning white corn a “non-starter” in negotiations

Posted Dec 05, 2022 4:00 PM

The National Corn Growers Association appreciates Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack’s efforts by traveling to Mexico City to discuss Mexico’s pending ban on biotech corn imports that goes into effect in 2024. Vilsack spoke with Mexican President Lopez Obrador about the importance of finding an acceptable resolution on the matter.

President Obrador indicated last week that there might be room for compromise, suggesting the country would continue allowing imports of yellow corn used for livestock feed but would block white corn, imported mainly for human consumption.

However, yellow corn is also food grade and nutritious in hundreds of products consumers enjoy. “Any decision to block biotech crops by Mexico would be illegal under the USMCA agreement,” says NCGA President Tom Haag. “Eliminating white corn will in no way resolve this matter.” Haag also says his group highly appreciates Secretary Vilsack for “going to the mat” on this issue for American farmers.