The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) released the following statement in response to a bipartisan letter signed by 21 members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Led by Reps. Randy Feenstra (R-IA) and Dan Kildee (D-MI), the letter urged the Biden Administration to work alongside Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to address ongoing trade disputes between both nations – in particular, Mexico’s ban on genetically modified (GM) corn imports:“For decades, rules- and science-based free trade agreements have served both the United States and Mexico well—helping advance innovative biotechnologies that meet the needs of a growing world while relying on less land and water than ever before. At a time when Mexico faces a historic drought and relies on a record number of imports of U.S. agricultural commodities to meet its population’s growing demand, the role of biotechnology in agriculture has never been more critical. BIO urges both governments to work in concert to resolve this trade dispute as soon as possible for the sake of future biotechnological innovation and the health of both nations.”

WASHINGTON, DC (September 17, 2024) – Today, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) awarded Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin with its 2024 Governor of the Year Award. BIO’s annual award honors governors for their leadership and commitment to strengthening biotechnology in their state. For over a decade, the award has recognized governors from across the country and both sides of the aisle.“Investing in biotechnology is investing in Virginia’s future,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “As the Commonwealth’s cutting-edge research triangle and network continues to expand, my administration is determined to remain at the forefront of fostering innovation. I am incredibly humbled to receive this award, and I look forward to further solidifying Virginia’s role as a leader in the life sciences industry.”“It is my honor to recognize Governor Youngkin with BIO’s 2024 Governor of the Year award for his leadership and support of the life sciences in Virginia,” said BIO President and CEO John F. Crowley. “From advancing innovative economic development initiatives for the bioscience ecosystem to investing in cutting-edge life science facilities across the state, Governor Youngkin has worked tirelessly on public policy solutions to help expand opportunities for researchers, entrepreneurs, and patients in Virginia.” "Virginia's $8 billion biotechnology industry is thriving because of the steadfast support of our governmental leaders and regional partnerships," said John Newby, CEO of the Virginia Biotechnology Association. "We thank Governor Youngkin and his administration for making transformational investments in our ecosystem, and for promoting pro-innovation policies that bring life-improving technologies to patients."###About BIOBIO is the premier biotechnology advocacy organization representing biotech companies, industry leaders, and state biotech associations in the United States and more than 35 countries around the globe. BIO members range from…