Adam Smith wrote “corn is a necessary, silver is only a superfluity” to contrast the centrality of food when compared with more commercial indulgences. It’s worth remembering that statement at a time when a new trade fight is brewing over corn, even as the Global South confronts multiple food crises.In February, Mexico issued a decree banning genetically modified (GMO) corn — domestic or imported — for human consumption. This affects white corn, used in tortillas and dough. Mexico has justified its move as driven by a desire to ensure food security and biodiversity by preserving its diverse varieties of maize. Mexico, according to the decree, also wants to protect the interests and practices of traditional farmers.White corn constituted only 3 percent of Mexican corn imports in 2021 and 2022. It accounts for just about one percent of American corn. Yet that hasn’t stopped the United States from threatening legal action against Mexico over the decree. In March, the US announced consultations preparing for a formal dispute under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Canada has joined the US in this planned action.
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