Mexico Launches National Push to Boost Sustainable Corn and Bean Yields
Mexico’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER), in collaboration with the Ministry of Science, Humanities, Technology, and Innovation (SECIHTI), has issued a call to action for the nation’s scientific community to prioritize sustainable innovation in the cultivation of corn and beans, two critical staples of the Mexican diet and agriculture sector.
This appeal was made at the INIFAP-hosted conference on “Improvement of Corn and Bean Crops,” where officials stressed the urgency of boosting domestic productivity to achieve food self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on imports, particularly yellow corn and high-quality bean seeds.
Empowering Small and Medium Producers
Héctor Robles, General Coordinator for Innovation and Agroecological Transition at SADER, underlined the role of small and medium-scale producers, who contribute 54% of production value and represent 85% of the agricultural labor force. Despite their importance, these producers often face challenges such as rural migration, declining traditional practices, and dependency on imported grains.
Robles emphasized the need to strengthen support systems through public-private-academic partnerships and called on universities and research institutions to contribute practical, science-driven solutions.
Driving Research and Collaboration Through SECIHTI
Victor Miguel García, Deputy Director at SECIHTI, announced the launch of the 2025 SECIHTI Research Projects Call, encouraging proposals under the theme “Improvement of Corn and Bean Crops.” Submissions are open until April 28, 2025, with results to be announced on June 23, 2025.
Efraín Cruz of INIFAP pointed out that while research on corn and beans is substantial, this initiative aims to consolidate existing knowledge with real-world experience, particularly from smallholders, and develop scalable agricultural innovations.
Domestic Market Impact
Mexico currently faces a 300,000-ton bean deficit and continues to import significant volumes of yellow corn. This initiative aims to:
- Reduce dependency on imports and stimulate local production.
- Support marginalized rural economies.
- Preserve native seed varieties and traditional agroecological practices.
- Bridge gaps between science, policy, and farmer know-how.
This move is strategically aligned with Mexico’s national agenda of agricultural sovereignty and sustainable rural development.
