According to New York Times article Germany Bars Genetically Modified Corn, German agricultural minister, Ilse Aigner, feels that genetically modified corn produced by American company Monsanto presents an environmental risk. Aigner's belief represents that of many European citizens, proving that Europe is one of the most skeptical markets for genetically modified crops. People are concerned for their safety, and although Aigner claims her decision to ban GM maize is "not a political [one]," the blow to Monsanto will damage German-American trade relations.

The article goes on to explain that the European Comission has been pushing Europeans to ease up on their skepticism and allow "greater quantities of low cost foods" (the main benefit of GM crops in the first place) to be grown in Europe. Germany's decision has been reflected by other European countries such as France and Luxembourg, and will continue to influence others as the world continues further into the Green Revolution.