ASTA Welcomes Announcement of Dispute Consultations with Mexico

ASTA Welcomes Announcement of Dispute Consultations with Mexico

Alexandria, VA—June 2, 2023—The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) welcomes the Administration’s announcement that the United States has formally initiated dispute settlement consultations under USMCA to address Mexico’s unwarranted trade barriers to agricultural biotechnology products.

The United States has a long track record demonstrating the safe commercialization of biotechnology crops, which contribute to agricultural sustainability and support food security in both Mexico and the United States. Mexico’s recent actions have undermined the longstanding bilateral trade relationship between the United States and Mexico in these products, as well as Mexico’s own commitments under USMCA. The unpredictability resulting from Mexico’s current policies has eroded trust, delayed innovation, and threatens to increase costs to the detriment of U.S. farmers, U.S. businesses, and Mexican consumers alike.

Farmers worldwide have adopted agricultural biotechnology products, due to the economic and environmental benefits that these innovations have delivered in a range of environments, countries, and contexts. These products not only deserve a level playing field globally, but are necessary to ensure that we can meet the sustainability and food security needs of a growing global population. The United States’ announcement sends a strong signal that we expect our trade partners to follow science- and risk-based policies.

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Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) represents over 700 companies involved in seed production, plant breeding and related industries in North America. ASTA is the leading voice of action in all matters concerning the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world. The association’s broad membership offers varieties from alfalfa to zucchini and all production types including conventional, organic and biotech. ASTA promotes the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life.