U.S. Embassy & Consulates
in Mexico

USTR has requested technical consultations with the Government of Mexico under the USMCA Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures chapter to discuss Mexico’s recent actions on agriculture biotechnology.  These consultations represent an opportunity to address U.S. concerns with Mexico’s biotech policies and underscore our shared commitment to a science-based regulatory approach.  Technical consultations under USMCA Article 9.19 provide for a minimum of 30 days of dialogue as a precursor to having recourse to dispute settlement procedures under USMCA Chapter 31. There is no limit on the duration of these talks if the two governments agree to continue.  I urge Mexico to seize this opportunity and provide the technical resources and expertise necessary to ensure a successful resolution of these important issues.

Statement by USTR:

https://ustr.gov/about-us/policy-offices/press-office/press-releases/2023/march/ustr-announces-usmca-technical-consultations-mexico-agricultural-biotechnology

Statement by US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack:

https://www.fas.usda.gov/newsroom/statement-secretary-vilsack-regarding-usmca-consultation-request-mexico

Full text of USMCA:

https://www.gob.mx/t-mec/acciones-y-programas/textos-finales-del-tratado-entre-mexico-estados-unidos-y-canada-t-mec-202730?state=published