Mexico Strengthens Agriculture Policies Amid Trade Challenges

The Mexican government published a new reform to safeguard native corn. Meanwhile, US food manufacturers urge President Donald Trump to exempt essential imported ingredients from tariffs.

This is the Week in Agribusiness!

Mexico Issues Decree Banning GM Corn

Mexico has officially banned the use of genetically modified (GM) corn, reinforcing constitutional reforms to protect native corn varieties, biodiversity, and food sovereignty. The decree, signed by President Claudia Sheinbaum, mandates that corn cultivation remains free from transgenic modifications, prioritizing rural development and traditional agricultural practices like the milpa system. This move follows a USMCA trade dispute, where a panel ruled against Mexico’s restrictions on GM corn, prompting the government to push forward with a nationwide ban despite international trade pressures.

Major Food Manufacturers Request Tariff Exemptions in the US

Leading packaged food manufacturers, including PepsiCo, Conagra, and J.M. Smucker, urged President Donald Trump to exempt essential imported ingredients from tariffs, arguing that these products are unavailable domestically. Companies fear that rising costs on coffee, cocoa, spices, and packaging materials will further drive consumer price increases, especially as inflation has already pressured grocery spending. Some firms, like Mondelēz and Coca-Cola, are preparing for potential tariff impacts by adjusting pricing, marketing strategies, and packaging choices to mitigate rising costs.

Mexico Targets Asia, Showcases Agri-Food Products at FOODEX2025

Mexico’s agri-food industry will strengthen its commercial presence in Asia by participating in FOODEX 2025, Japan’s largest food and beverage trade fair, with support from SADER, state governments, and producer associations. Representatives from seven states and 44 companies will showcase key exports such as avocados, berries, beef, seafood, and mezcal, aiming to expand trade beyond the US market. With Japan as Mexico’s top Asian trade partner, the event aligns with Mexico’s CPTPP and AAEMJ agreements, reinforcing its position in a growing regional market.

Mexico Advances Toward a Regulatory Framework for Bio-Inputs

Mexico is developing a regulatory framework for bio-inputs, aiming to reduce reliance on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers while ensuring their efficacy, safety, and environmental sustainability. At a legislative forum, lawmakers, industry leaders, and researchers discussed regulatory barriers, financial incentives, and the need for a gradual transition to safer agricultural alternatives. The initiative aligns with Mexico’s push for sustainable farming solutions, balancing food safety, environmental responsibility, and economic viability.

Mexico Launches National Forum to Boost Shrimp Industry

The Mexican government is working with key stakeholders to regulate and restructure the shrimp industry, aiming for long-term sustainability rather than temporary fixes. At the National Forum on The Future of Mexican Shrimp, officials, fishers, and industry leaders discussed strategies to balance economic growth, environmental sustainability, and community welfare. The initiative seeks to improve processing, employment conditions, and regulatory frameworks, ensuring the future viability of Mexico’s shrimp sector.