# Mexico RNA-based biofungicide registration and use

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mexico-rna-based-biofungicide-registration-and-use
> Updated: 2026-09-06T10:30:00.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Mexico has become the first country to register an RNA-based biofungicide, a biotechnology developed by GreenLight Biosciences that uses RNA molecules to deactivate specific fungal genes. The registration followed a nine-month evaluation by Mexican regulatory bodies, including Cofepris, Senasica, and Semarnat. To support this technology, GreenLight Biosciences plans to invest between $50 million and $100 million to establish a large-scale manufacturing plant in Mexico City.

While the technology is intended to provide a sustainable alternative to chemical fungicides by reducing residues in soil and water, its approval has met with criticism. Opponents have raised concerns regarding the potential for unintended damage to biodiversity, noting that the genetic sequences used to silence specific genes might also affect beneficial insects, plants, or other fungi.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-06: Mexico approves commercial use of RNA-based biological fungicide

Mexico has approved the commercial use of a genetically engineered RNAi fungicide from GreenLight Biosciences, sparking concerns over potential impacts on biodiversity and beneficial organisms.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mexico-approves-commercial-use-of-rna-based-biological-fungicide

### 2026-08-12: Mexico registers world's first RNA-based biofungicide

Mexico has registered the world's first RNA-based biofungicide. GreenLight Biosciences will invest up to $100 million in a Mexico City plant to produce these sustainable crop protection solutions.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mexico-registers-worlds-first-rna-based-biofungicide

---
Cite as: Mexico RNA-based biofungicide registration and use. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mexico-rna-based-biofungicide-registration-and-use