USTR’s McKalip Talks Mexico Corn Dispute, New Markets, at Corn Congress

The U.S. has made a strong case in the dispute with Mexico over genetically engineered corn under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, a top official in the Biden administration told farmers this week during remarks at the National Corn Growers Association's Corn Congress meeting in Washington, D.C.

"This is something we will not rest until we get done," said Ambassador Doug McKalip who serves as the chief agricultural negotiator in the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative. "I know this is critically important, not just for corn growers, but frankly, farmers of all kinds. They say 'we cannot allow trading partners to play loose with the science. If they can do it with corn, they can do it with anything.'"

McKalip said both U.S. and Mexican officials were given questions in writing by the panel considering the matter and both have responded. He said a decision is expected this fall.

McKalip said USTR is working on addressing unfair trade practices with Brazil and, that it has addressed burdensome tariffs from governments in South Asia.

"We have continued to be frustrated by the 18% tariffs that Brazil has placed on ethanol," McKalip noted. "Today, we still do not have one U.S. biofuel company that has qualified for the Brazilian program."

McKalip said USTR values trade with China but is also focused on diversifying its Asian trade portfolio. He said the U.S. is looking at cultivating markets in Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia, among other countries.

Corn growers have worked closely with Ambassador McKalip and USTR. After Mexico announced its intent to block imports of genetically engineered corn, NCGA and corn grower leaders sounded the alarm. USTR worked with corn growers as it filed a dispute settlement case on the issue under the USMCA.

Corn Congress meets every summer in the nation's capital to vote on policy positions, elect new board members and to hear from the nation's top leaders.