Mexico is waiting for evidence from the United States that genetically modified (GM) corn does not harm people. As part of a trade dispute between the countries, Deputy Agriculture Minister Víctor Suárez said, online publication The Western Producer reported on March 21.
An explanation of the agreement between Mexico, the United States and Canada, provided by the Mexican side, contains a statement on the dangers of genetically modified corn and the herbicide glyphosate to human health. Therefore, the decision to prohibit the import of transgenic corn for human consumption can be made unilaterally by Mexico.
The clarification was given in January but not published until March by the Agricultural and Trade Policy Institute.
Suárez put the burden on the United States to demonstrate the safety of transgenic corn. Per capita consumption of corn in Mexico is higher than in many other countries.
USA “They claim that Mexico’s decision is not scientifically justified. But we have not yet seen any scientific evidence from the United States or its companies. “We look forward to the investigation with great interest.”Suárez said in an interview with Reuters.
A USDA official said Mexico’s approach contradicts “decades of evidence demonstrating safety” Transgenic corn.
Genetically modified corn is widely used to feed livestock around the world. Mexico previously banned imports of genetically modified corn. Then, under pressure from the United States, he allowed imports of livestock feed, but not human food. Mexico annually buys 5.9 billion dollars (545 billion rubles) in feed corn from the United States.
A trade dispute with Mexico threatens U.S. corn exports amid weak demand. Falling prices hurt farmers.
Glyphosate is used to grow genetically modified corn. Mexico’s response cites studies showing a link between the consumption of genetically modified corn and the effects of glyphosate on the human liver and animal immune systems. According to Mexican experts, the risk to human health is “extremely serious.”
Source: Rossa Primavera
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