U.S. Trade Representative Announces Next Step in Trade Dispute with Mexico

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE        CONTACT: Lindsay Mitchell 

                                                                       June 2, 2023 (309) 846-6622

BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – Today, U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Katherine Tai announced that the USTR will file a dispute settlement under the U.S. Mexico Canada Agreement for trade. The dispute over Mexican intent to ban genetically modified corn from the U.S. violates the terms of the free trade agreement that entered into force on July 1, 2020. IL Corn Growers Association President Matt Rush, also a farmer in Fairfield, IL, said in response: 

“Any trade disruption with Mexico can and will negatively impact Illinois corn farmers, so we are grateful to the USTR for taking this matter seriously. We were hopeful that the issue could be resolved through technical consultation, but since it wasn’t, moving to the next phase outlined in our free trade agreement is vital. 

“The heart of the matter is that the Mexican decree to ban GMO corn violates the terms of our mutual agreement. We cannot allow this type of violation to stand. Secondly, the decree is not based in any science or market demand but is politically motivated. 

“As a corn farmer, and especially as a corn farmer growing white corn, we are all ready to supply the grain that the market demands, including specialty corn like non-GMO. We are not ready to be subject to the political demands of our neighbors.” 

### 

About the IL Corn Growers Association 

IL Corn Growers Association is a state-based organization that represents the interests of corn farmers in Illinois, maintaining a high profile on issues in Washington, DC, and Springfield, IL. Through grassroots advocacy, ICGA creates a future for Illinois farmers in which they can operate freely, responsibly, and successfully. In order to fulfill this mission, the organization conducts governmental affairs activities at all levels, market development projects, and educational and member service programs. For further information regarding their work and involvement, visit their website www.ilcorn.org.