The president of the Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaumsigned a historical decree that prohibits the Cultivation of transgenic corn in the country, inserting the norm directly in the Constitution. The reform, which changes articles 4 and 27, aims to preserve the native varieties of cornconsidered a fundamental element of culture, national identity and Mexican food sovereignty.
The decision arrived despite the international disputes linked to the Treaty between Mexico, the United States and Canada (T-Mec), which had judged the restrictions imposed by Mexico to the import of genetically modified corn not compliant with scientific and commercial standards. However, the Mexican government reiterated the importance of this measure for protect biodiversity, the environment and public health.
According to the new legislation, the cultivation of corn in Mexico must be devoid of genetic modifications obtained with techniques that exceed natural reproduction and recombination barriers. Furthermore, any other use of genetically modified corn will be subjected to rigorous evaluations To ensure biological safety, the protection of health and the protection of Mexican biocultural heritage.
The government has it that agricultural production be sustainable and respectful of tradition and the environment
The modification to article 27 of the Constitution strengthens support for farmersencouraging the cultivation of traditional varieties and the Protection of native seeds. The government undertakes to promote scientific research, agroecological development and innovation, in compliance with the traditional knowledge of local communities.
The declared goal is to ensure that the country’s agricultural production remain self -sufficientreducing the dependence on transgenic corn imports, which in 2023 exceeded 3.5 billion dollars from the United States. In addition, the government intends to strengthen food sovereignty and protect Mexican agriculture from the negative effects of the use of herbicides like glyphosateoften associated with genetically modified crops.
This reform has a strong symbolic value: The Mais is the basis of Mexican culture and foodand is considered an essential element for the existence of Indigenous and African populations. The Mexican government has reiterated its commitment to ensure that the agricultural production of the nation is sustainable and respectful of tradition and the environment.
With this measure, Mexico is positioned as one of the most engaged countries in Defense of natural agriculturechallenging international pressures and focusing on an agricultural model that enhances its cultural roots and protects public health.
