CropLife Canada welcomes CUSMA decision on genetically modified corn

CropLife Canada is pleased with the recent Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) dispute settlement ruling in which Mexico is formally requested to repeal its presidential decree prohibiting the use or import of genetically modified (GM) corn. The CUSMA panel found that restrictions proposed by Mexico on GM corn were not scientifically justified. This is an important decision that upholds rules-based trade and supports global food security.

The dispute concerned a 2020 presidential decree in Mexico that called for restrictions on the import of GM corn. In 2023, Mexico re-issued a decree which, among other provisions, called for an immediate ban on the use of GM corn in food and eventual substitution of GM corn in feed and industrial uses.

The U.S. government, with the support of the Canadian government as a third party to the action, filed a formal dispute asserting that Mexico’s actions violate the terms of the CUSMA.

Non-science-based approaches taken by our trading partners threaten to disrupt trade and deter agricultural innovations.

CropLife Canada will continue to advocate for rules-based trade to support Canadian growers’ access to innovation and ensure that Canadian agri-food products can reach those around the world who need them.