Public-Private Alliance Strengthens Mexico's Agri-Food Safety

Mexico's public-private alliance in the agri-food sector has been instrumental in enhancing the country's food safety and competitiveness, according to officials and industry leaders at the closing ceremony of the Second National Agri-Food Safety and Sanitation Congress.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER), along with academic institutions and the production sector, emphasized the strategic role of public-private partnership in reinforcing agri-food safety and promoting producer competitiveness. This alliance aims to ensure the delivery of safe and healthy food to Mexican households.

Javier Calderón, Director, SENASICA, praised the National Agricultural Council (CNA) for organizing the event, and highlighted the importance of innovation and collaboration in safeguarding food production against pests, diseases, and pathogens. Calderón emphasized that for SENASICA, health intelligence, the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and data analysis have become crucial tools for maintaining Mexico's sanitary status. 

This status is key to the country's position as a leading food producer and exporter, with strong trade relations involving 50 countries across five continents. Mexico's export portfolio includes pork and beef products, tuna, berries, avocado, tomatoes, peppers, sugar, lemons, bananas, and other fruits and vegetables. These exports contribute over US$50 million annually to the Mexican economy, with the agri-food and agro-industrial trade balance showing a surplus for the ninth consecutive year, totaling US$4.18 billion.

The private sector reiterated its commitment to contributing knowledge, experience, and financial resources to support the efforts of the Mexican government and international organizations such as the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and the International Regional Organization for Plant and Animal Health (OIRSA), according to Mario Puente, Vice President of Food Safety and Sanitation, CNA.