Mexico and CIMMYT Deepen Strategic Alliance to Future-Proof Agri-Food Systems

In a pivotal move to drive agricultural innovation and sustainability, the Government of Mexico has reinforced its collaboration with the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT). The partnership was strengthened during a high-level visit by Rosaura Ruiz Gutiérrez, Secretary of Science, Humanities, Technology and Innovation (Secihti), and Julio Berdegué Sacristán, Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development (AGRICULTURE), to CIMMYT’s global headquarters. CIMMYT CEO Bram Govaerts welcomed the delegation, unveiling the organization’s 2030 strategy, which emphasizes science, innovation, and capacity building to tackle global agri-food challenges. He underscored Mexico’s unique advantage in accessing CIMMYT’s world-class research and technology, reaffirming the center’s commitment to sharing advancements “from Mexico to the world.” A key part of the visit included a tour of the Wellhausen-Anderson Genetic Resource Center, home to one of the world’s largest germplasm banks, with over 124,000 wheat and 28,000 maize accessions. These genetic resources are critical for breeding crop varieties that are climate-resilient, pest-resistant, and nutritionally enhanced. Officials also explored CIMMYT’s biofortification research and long-term agricultural platforms, which integrate soil conservation, nutrient efficiency, crop diversification, and rational water use. These platforms, embedded within 13 innovation hubs across Mexico, approach agriculture as a holistic system, aligning modern science with traditional knowledge and local needs. Collaboration with INIFAP’s National Center for Genetic Resources was highlighted as a cornerstone for preserving Mexico’s agricultural biodiversity. The delegation also learned about CIMMYT’s role in fostering partnerships with over 40 academic institutions, research centers, agribusinesses, and local governments, effectively bridging science with practical field application. Secretary Berdegué Sacristán emphasized the need for science and technology to uplift small and medium-scale corn and wheat producers, essential to national food security. He praised CIMMYT’s role in developing scalable, inclusive tools and reaffirmed AGRICULTURE’s commitment to self-sufficiency and food sovereignty under President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration. Secretary Ruiz Gutiérrez highlighted CIMMYT’s relevance to national goals around improving corn and bean seed production. She stressed the importance of fostering stronger connections between public universities, students, and CIMMYT through internships and joint research. She also acknowledged the potential of CIMMYT’s work in agricultural robotics and machinery to improve productivity for smallholders. This renewed alliance strengthens Mexico’s leadership in agri-food innovation and regional development. With plans to expand its model into Guatemala and Honduras, CIMMYT continues to act as a strategic partner for transforming food systems, combining cutting-edge science with local engagement to create a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable future.