Wedoany.com Report-Aug. 28, At the First Forum “Millennial Heritage Corn: Corn, the Golden Grain, Food of the Gods and the People” held in Texistepec, Veracruz, Mexico’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development, Julio Berdegué Sacristán, outlined plans to boost white corn production to 25 million tons by the end of President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo’s term in 2030. The initiative, part of the Mexico Plan, focuses on achieving food self-sufficiency and supporting 2.5 million small- and medium-scale producers.

Berdegué emphasized the cultural and agricultural significance of corn, stating: “Corn was not only a gift from our ancestors to Mexico, it was a gift from our ancestors to the whole planet… If we lose our corn, we lose a part of the soul of Mexico.” The forum highlighted corn’s historical and nutritional importance in Veracruz, a key agricultural region.

To meet the 25-million-ton goal, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is supporting producers with free fertilizers, technical assistance through Field Schools, and the Harvesting Sovereignty program, offering financing at an 8.5% interest rate and subsidized crop insurance. Berdegué noted: “How much more corn do we need to produce each of you? A little more than an additional ton on your plot. For example, if someone has three hectares, then with an additional 500 kilos per hectare he has already contributed to the nation’s food sovereignty.”

The initiative aims to enhance production efficiency, with small- and medium-scale farmers currently contributing three million tons of white corn annually. Berdegué added: “It is an effort that President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo asks for corn producers, but the government is also doing its part. This additional production is what makes Mexico stronger, that it has less dependence and can be a freer, more sovereign and more independent country.”

The forum was attended by Manuel Rafael Huerta Ladrón de Guevara, president of the Agriculture Commission of the Chamber of Senators, and Senator Lizeth Sánchez García, who emphasized rural development and community well-being. Following the event, Berdegué visited the Museum of the Siege of San Lorenzo Tenochtitlán, home to a significant collection of Olmec artifacts, and met with local producers to discuss their contributions to preserving Mexico’s agricultural heritage.

This effort underscores Mexico’s commitment to strengthening its agricultural sector, ensuring food security, and preserving cultural heritage through sustainable farming practices. The support for small- and medium-scale producers is expected to drive economic growth and enhance the nation’s self-reliance in food production.