The Week in Agribusiness: Drought, GMO Corn, Irrigation, and More

President Claudia Sheinbaum directed immediate support for small farmers in Sonora due to the severe drought. Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture Julio Berdegué reaffirmed Mexico’s stance against genetically modified corn, citing self-sufficiency. In Hidalgo, SADER and CONAGUA signed an agreement to modernize irrigation systems for better water use. SADER and CONAFOR also called on municipalities to strengthen wildfire prevention, especially regarding uncontrolled agricultural burns. 

All this and more in this week’s Agribusiness Roundup!

Claudia Sheinbaum Supports Sonora Farmers Amid Prolonged Drought

President Claudia Sheinbaum has instructed Minister of Agriculture, Julio Berdegué, and Governor of Sonora, Alfonso Durazo, to provide immediate assistance to small-scale farmers in Sonora who are suffering from the severe drought affecting the region. “We are going to support small farmers now that the drought is so severe,” Sheinbaum said during a recent visit to the state. 

Without Corn, There Is No Country: Sheinbaum

Mexico’s position on genetically modified corn has been a subject of significant debate, especially in the context of USMCA. Recently, the Mexican government, led by Minister of Agriculture Julio Berdegue, reaffirmed its stance on genetically modified (GMO) corn, which he deems unnecessary for the country, since Mexico is already self-sufficient in producing white corn.

Hidalgo Seals Agreement to Modernize Irrigation Systems 

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER), the National Water Commission (CONAGUA), the Government of Hidalgo, and agricultural users have signed a collaboration agreement to modernize three irrigation districts in the state of Hidalgo. This initiative is part of the National Agreement for the Human Right to Water and Sustainability, which aligns with the broader commitments of the Fourth Transformation's second phase.

SADER, CONAFOR to Strengthen Wildfire Prevention 

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER) and the National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR) have called on 64 municipalities to implement stronger training and preventive measures to address wildfires caused by uncontrolled agricultural burns.  

View from the Top:

How Do We Walk a Sustainable Path?

Francsico Salas looks at the many considerations when it comes to improving agricultural practices. “Consumers want to learn about the improvements and successes of the farmers switching to sustainable practices. Inversely, the farmer must know that this change matters to all the participants in the marketplace,” he writes for MBN.