The ongoing dispute with Mexico over genetically engineered corn has been a significant issue for some time.
U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Doug McKalip reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to resolving the issue, expecting a decision this fall. The dispute began after Mexico’s plan to block genetically engineered corn imports triggered concerns among U.S. corn growers. McKalip emphasized the broader impact on ag trade saying, “We cannot allow trading partners to play loose with the science.”
A senior economist at the IGP Institute at K-State provided his take on Mexico’s GMO corn restrictions dispute.
“Well, I think we’re projected to have record exports to Mexico this year. That’s being supported by the dry weather they had last year in production, and the shortfall there so puts them in kind of a difficult situation if they want to limit corn imports on the GMO issue. The change in the political situation, I don’t think it’s necessarily changed their attitude much, but at least they’ve backed off of their previous approach. I’m optimistic they’ll come to the table on sticking to the NAFTA agreements that were in place.”
In addition to the Mexico issue, McKalip outlined USTR’s efforts to address trade challenges with Brazil, particularly the 18 percent tariffs on U.S. ethanol and to explore new markets in Asia, including Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia.
