Imports Surge, Trade Expands and Food Security Shifts

Mexico is expected to import record volumes of corn in 2026 and 2027 as domestic production declines and feed demand from the livestock sector rises. Meanwhile, Mexican and US officials will inaugurate a sterile fly production facility in Chiapas as part of a strategy to contain the New World screwworm

This is the Week in Agribusiness and Food!

Mexico Eyes Record Corn Imports Amid Falling Output

Mexico is expected to reach record corn import levels over the next two marketing years as domestic production declines and livestock feed demand continues to grow, with the United States remaining the country's primary supplier. While the USDA, OECD and FAO project an increasing gap between domestic consumption and production, Mexico's government argues that white corn self-sufficiency remains secure and that rising imports are driven primarily by demand for yellow corn used in the livestock industry. At the same time, the Sheinbaum administration is expanding its El Maíz es la Raíz program to preserve native corn varieties and strengthen domestic production in rural communities.

Mexico, US Open Sterile Fly Plant to Fight Screwworm

Mexico and the United States will inaugurate a US$51 million sterile fly production facility in Chiapas to strengthen the binational fight against the New World screwworm, a livestock pest that has recently spread into the United States. The plant will produce sterilized male flies to suppress pest populations, complementing broader investments and cooperation as both countries seek to protect livestock industries from significant economic losses. Meanwhile, Mexico is expanding surveillance, veterinary training and sterile fly releases nationwide as part of its strategy to contain and eradicate the pest.

HEINEKEN Mexico Cuts Scope 1, 2 Emissions by 30% in 2025

HEINEKEN Mexico reduced its Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 30% and cut supply chain emissions by 28% in 2025, advancing its roadmap toward net-zero operations by 2030 and a fully decarbonized value chain by 2040. The brewer also strengthened sustainable sourcing, improved water efficiency at its breweries, expanded recyclable and reusable packaging, and advanced diversity and responsible consumption initiatives as part of its Brew a Better World strategy. Company executives emphasized that regenerative supply chains, water stewardship and transparency will be critical to meeting evolving consumer expectations and long-term sustainability goals.

Tomato Prices Stabilize Below MX$20/kg in Mexico

Tomato prices in Mexico have fallen sharply following a national agreement between the government, producers and retailers, as well as the arrival of new harvests, helping ease food inflation after months of record price increases. Average prices have dropped below MX$20/kg, contributing to lower headline inflation in June, although many households continue to face significant pressure from the high cost of essential goods and services. Industry leaders say the agreement could serve as a model for improving food supply chains, price stability and national food security.

Sinaloa Seeks Sorghum Export Access to China

Sinaloa is negotiating with Chinese authorities to gain market access for its sorghum as part of a strategy to diversify agricultural exports and reduce dependence on traditional buyers. Discussions are focused on meeting China's sanitary, traceability and quality requirements, while state officials highlight the strength of Sinaloa's agricultural research, food safety and production systems. If approved, access to the Chinese market would create new commercial opportunities for sorghum producers and strengthen the state's agrifood sector.