Mexico registers world's first RNA-based biofungicide

Mexico has become the first country in the world to register an RNA-based biofungicide, marking a significant advancement in agricultural biotechnology. This technology uses RNA molecules to deactivate specific genes required by fungi to survive, providing a biological alternative to traditional chemical fungicides. The product is designed to degrade naturally, reducing chemical residues in soil, water, and crops while minimizing impact on non-target organisms.

GreenLight Biosciences will invest between $50 million and $100 million to establish a manufacturing plant in Mexico City. This facility is expected to be one of the largest in the world for RNA production, creating approximately 500 specialized direct jobs. The project aims to integrate the full value chain, including research, development, mass production, and international export.

The registration was granted in a nine-month period following a coordinated scientific and regulatory evaluation by the Federal Commission for Protection against Sanitary Risk (Cofepris), the National Service for Agrifood Health, Safety and Quality (Senasica), and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat). Initial applications will target crops such as avocado, strawberry, grape, and cucumber, with future plans to expand into corn and cotton.