A trade dispute panel convened under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) ruled on Friday that Mexico’s import restrictions on US genetically modified corn violate the accord.

The conflict stems from a presidential decree published by Mexico in February 2023. The decree established an immediate ban on the use of genetically engineered corn in dough and tortillas, and instructed Mexican government agencies to gradually end the use of genetically engineered corn in animal feed and other products.

The panel evaluating Mexico’s restrictions on genetically modified corn determined that the restrictions were not based on science and contravened the market access required by the USMCA. The USMCA seeks to create balanced, reciprocal trade and grow the economy in North America.

US Trade Representative Katherine Tai announced the United States’ victory in the trade dispute. Ambassador Tai stated that the decision reaffirmed US concerns about Mexico’s biotechnology policies.

Mexico’s stated purpose for its 2023 decree was to “protect the rights to health and a healthy environment” and “to ensure a nutritious, sufficient and quality diet.” The US has maintained its stance that Mexico’s biotechnology policies are not based on scientific data.

Several advocacy groups are proponents of Mexico’s corn decree. These groups oppose US challenges to import restrictions and have implored the US to respect Mexico’s sovereignty. Others believe that the US has a right to challenge the restrictions as a party to the USMCA.

Ambassador Doug McKalip said that the trade dispute panel’s decision “supports our efforts to maintain a strong, science- and rules-based trade, which serves as the foundation of the USMCA as it was agreed to by all parties.”