Mexico Moves to Ban GMO Corn in Its Constitution: Impact and Challenges

The Mexican government has proposed a constitutional amendment to ban the cultivation of genetically modified (GMO) corn nationwide. President Claudia Sheinbaum introduced the initiative in January 2025, aiming to modify Articles 4 and 27 of the Mexican Constitution.

The proposal seeks to enshrine corn as a fundamental element of national identity and establish the state’s obligation to protect native corn from genetic modification. The revised Article 4 would recognize corn as a cultural heritage that must remain free from GMOs, while Article 27 would mandate the promotion of agroecological farming methods and prohibit the use of genetically modified seeds.

This move aligns with Mexico’s longstanding policy of safeguarding its 59 native corn varieties, arguing that transgenic contamination could threaten biodiversity, cultural traditions, and food sovereignty. The proposed reform responds to ongoing legal and trade disputes related to GMO corn, reinforcing the government’s commitment to protecting its agricultural heritage.