Mexico’s GM corn ban opens market for American farmers

Mexico has issued a ban on importing genetically modified corn from the U.S., potentially opening a new market for American farmers. Mexico is the second-largest importer of U.S. grown corn. The latest data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture show Mexico imported about $18.7 billion worth of American corn, or about 40% of what the U.S. exported. Now, the Mexican government is moving to ban genetically modified corn, opting for natural, organic options, much to the dismay of American ag product and fertilizer companies. Joe Maxwell, co-founder of the group Farm Action, said the government should not be involved in deciding what other countries can import. “We disagree with the United States government’s position,” Maxwell explained. “They ought to be representing a market opportunity for America’s farmers that pays a premium.” Maxwell argued market opportunities would be created by Mexico’s demand for more naturally grown corn, which could yield American farmers willing to grow ...