GRAND ISLAND, Nebraska — Nebraska is on the front lines of a trade war with no end in sight. Some call it the tortilla war, a dispute over the production of chips and tortillas from genetically modified corn.

“There is no scientific evidence that GMOs are unsafe. We know that, the rest of the world knows that,” said Andy Jobman, chairman of the Nebraska Corn Growers Association.

Mexico wants to reject genetically modified corn, which could be a major blow to Nebraska farmers like Jobman.

“We are the largest corn-producing state in the country, but it is also a major trade issue for the world. The world is watching closely what happens in this dispute with Mexico,” he said.

“If there is a perception that we are ignoring this or giving Mexico a free pass, that is dangerous because other countries would like to do similar,” said MP Adrian Smith.

Smith moderated a panel discussion on trade at the Nebraska State Fair organized by Senator Pete Ricketts.

Smith says Mexico’s stance is a blatant violation of free trade rules. He says President Biden has not spoken on trade but is concerned about President Trump’s approach.

“I’m not a big fan of tariffs, but they have to be a tool in the toolbox,” Smith told the audience.

Smith says that while targeting “cheaters” like China is an acceptable use of tariffs, it is not the only option.

“It could be big trade deals passed by Congress or more aggressive enforcement,” he said.

Back to Mexico, Jobman expressed concern that the country’s Congress is seeking to ban genetically modified corn and impose new requirements that would be unacceptable to American farmers.