"US Requests Dispute Panel in Escalating Trade Spat with Mexico over Genetically Modified Corn"

The United States has escalated its objections to Mexico's restrictions on genetically modified (GM) corn imports by requesting a dispute settlement panel under the North American trade pact. The US Trade Representative's office made the request after formal consultations failed to resolve the deep divisions between the two countries. The US alleges that Mexico's ban on GM corn used in human consumption violates its commitments under the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and is not based on science. If the panel rules in favor of the US and Mexico fails to comply, the US could impose punitive tariffs on Mexican goods, potentially sparking a trade war.