Mexico’s Constitutional Reform on Native Corn Protection

March 18, 2025

Recently, Mexico made move to safeguard its agricultural heritage by amending its Constitution and recognises native corn as a vital element of national identity. It also bans the planting of genetically modified (GM) seeds. This decision is a response to ongoing debates surrounding trade, sovereignty, and the preservation of maize biodiversity.

Corn as a Cultural Symbol

Corn holds deep cultural significance in Mexico. It has been a staple food for nearly 9,000 years. The phrase “Sin maíz, no hay país” (meaning “Without corn, there is no country”) captures its importance. Corn is not just food; it represents national identity. It features prominently in Mexican art and traditions, linking it to Indigenous peoples and their resilience. The average Mexican consumes about two pounds of corn daily in various traditional dishes.

Economic and Trade Context

The constitutional amendment follows previous attempts to limit GM corn imports. A trade panel under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) previously blocked these efforts. While Mexico must comply with international trade rulings, the new amendment focuses on domestic agriculture. It specifically bans the cultivation of GM seeds, addressing concerns about contamination of native maize varieties.

Shifts in Corn Trade Dynamics

Historically, Mexico was a corn exporter until the 1980s. The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1994 changed this landscape. US farmers, supported by federal subsidies, began flooding the Mexican market with cheap corn. This led to a surge in imports, drastically affecting local farmers. The amendment aims to reclaim agricultural independence and restore balance in the corn sector, despite continued reliance on US imports.

Health and Environmental Concerns

The ban on GM corn cultivation is also framed as a public health issue. Research suggests that GM corn and associated herbicides may pose health risks. Studies indicate high levels of GM corn in tortilla samples across Mexican cities. However, the US agricultural industry disputes these findings, denoting the contentious nature of the issue.

Trade Tensions with the United States

The corn reform adds to existing trade tensions between Mexico and the US. Previous tariffs imposed by the US on Mexican exports have escalated economic friction. Critics argue that US trade policies are contradictory. They demand respect for free trade agreements while enforcing protectionist measures. Despite US pressures, public support in Mexico for banning GM seed cultivation remains strong.

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