Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE) released the following statement after a dispute panel announced its finding that Mexico had violated its commitments under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) with its decree barring U.S.-grown biotech corn. Under USMCA rules, Mexico has 45 days from the date of the report to comply with the ruling.
“I have spent four years advocating for hardworking American farmers, and this decision is a victory for American agriculture producers and the future of rules-based, science-driven trade. While President Biden could have encouraged a resolution much sooner with a simple public statement, USMCA has worked as it should, and the integrity of USMCA has been upheld in this case. With the USMCA review coming in 2026, it is essential the U.S. continues to stand up for American industry and hold our trade partners to their commitments. I urge President Sheinbaum to swiftly comply with the findings of the panel and ensure fair market access for American corn growers, and I look forward to working with President Trump and his administration to hold Mexico accountable.”
BACKGROUND:
During USMCA negotiations, Smith traveled to Montreal and Mexico City to participate in discussions. In December 2020, Mexico issued a presidential decree to ban imports of U.S. biotech corn for human consumption contrary to its commitments under USMCA. Smith repeatedly petitioned the Biden administration to hold Mexico accountable and sent letters to USTR Amb. Katherine Tai and Agriculture Sec. Tom Vilsack calling for formal dispute consultations under USMCA.