Kansas Corn Growers Association (KCGA) leaders are celebrating a recent decision by a dispute panel that sided with the U.S. in a case against Mexico’s 2023 ban on genetically modified (GM) corn imports. The panel ruled that Mexico violated its trade commitments under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The U.S. Trade Representative, Katherine Tai, announced the decision on December 20, 2024.

KCGA, alongside the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), played a key role in bringing this issue to attention. KCGA CEO Josh Roe called the decision a win for corn farmers, noting that the ban lacked scientific support and harmed trade with Mexico, a key market for U.S. corn.

The NCGA and other supporters also praised the outcome, stressing that it was a direct result of persistent advocacy by corn growers and U.S. officials.

The issue started in 2020 when Mexico proposed banning GM corn, leading to a series of efforts by U.S. corn groups to prevent it. This ruling is seen as a significant victory for U.S. corn growers, and the NCGA plans to ensure that the decision is enforced.