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The Canada Grains Council (CGC) is pleased that the Federal Government is taking a strong stand on science-based regulation and rules-based trade.
Ottawa announced last week that it would be participating in the U.S. dispute settlement consultations with Mexico under the Canada-US-Mexico Agreement.
At issue is Mexico's decision to ban the use of biotechnology corn in tortillas and dough, and their intention to gradually substitute the use of biotechnology corn in all products for human consumption and animal feed, along with plans to reject applications covering the importation and sale of certain biotechnology products.
Krista Thomas, the CGC's Vice-President of Seed Innovation and Trade Policy for the CGC says farmers need plant science innovations to help them tackle the climate crisis, address food security challenges and remain competitive.
"Without predictable regulatory systems, it is much harder to get innovation into the hands of farmers. Mexico's decision to ban products with a proven record of safety has far-reaching consequences. Canadian farmers depend on these tools, which play a crucial role in sequestering over 11 million tonnes of greenhouse gases in their soil annually, promoting environmental sustainability."
She says, unfortunately, the introduction of Mexico's Decree has injected uncertainty into North American markets. If this measure is not withdrawn, it has the potential to trigger food price inflation and undermine food security within the intricate supply chains of North America.
Thomas says as a result the grain sector is hopeful the upcoming consultations with Mexico will lead to a quick resolution, without disruption to North American markets or increased risk to food security.