Introduction to Amiti and T-MEC Chapter 19
The Mexican Association of Information Technology Industry (Amiti) has championed the role of T-MEC Chapter 19 as a framework that has fostered the development of the regional digital economy. However, Amiti has called for specific adjustments, particularly in cybersecurity, to address the challenges posed by emerging technologies.
Who is Amiti?
Amiti, or the Mexican Association of Information Technology Industry, is a prominent organization representing the interests of the technology sector in Mexico. Comprising key players from various segments, Amiti plays a crucial role in shaping policies and regulations that impact the growth and competitiveness of Mexico’s technology industry.
Why is T-MEC Chapter 19 Relevant?
T-MEC Chapter 19 focuses on digital trade, addressing aspects such as e-commerce and digital services. As a pioneering component of the T-MEC, it has laid the groundwork for collaboration and regulatory frameworks in North America. However, with rapid advancements in technology, including artificial intelligence, there is a need for updates and adjustments to ensure the chapter remains relevant and effective.
Participation in Public Consultations
Sofía Pérez Gasque, Amiti’s director, outlined the organization’s stance and plans to engage in the public consultations initiated by Mexico and the United States on September 17, marking the beginning of the T-MEC review process. The review is set to formally commence in July 2026, with various presentations, comments, and public hearings where the technology industry will actively participate.
Amiti’s Position on T-MEC Chapter 19
Amiti acknowledges the success of T-MEC Chapter 19 in establishing a collaborative framework for digital trade. However, the organization seeks specific improvements, especially in cybersecurity, to tackle contemporary challenges posed by new technologies.
Cybersecurity: A Key Focus Area
Pérez Gasque highlighted cybersecurity as a central aspect of Amiti’s proposal. While T-MEC Chapter 19 addresses regional cooperation in cybersecurity, Amiti believes that the current provisions are too general and require significant strengthening to effectively mitigate cyber threats in the region and globally.
Amiti aims to transform the cybersecurity section from a broad statement into practical commitments and coordinated response mechanisms. The organization intends to formally voice its opinions during the public consultations.
Data Transfer and Exported Services
Another critical issue is data transfer and residency. Amiti advocates for maintaining free data flow as a norm for the region, stating that “free data flow must continue.” However, they recognize the challenges posed by financial transactions and geopolitical tensions.
Importance of Interoperability and Rules of Origin
Amiti emphasizes the significance of regional interoperability and rules of origin for services and software. Mexico’s technology sector exports over 85% of its services to the United States, making these aspects crucial for the industry’s growth.
Concerns Regarding US Proposed Tariffs
Amiti has expressed concern over the United States’ proposal to impose a 25% tariff on certain export services. Should this measure be implemented, it would contradict the T-MEC’s spirit, according to Pérez Gasque. Amiti will remain vigilant and hopes the initiative does not progress.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is Amiti’s stance on T-MEC Chapter 19? A: Amiti supports T-MEC Chapter 19 as a beneficial framework for digital cooperation in North America but calls for practical updates, including more cybersecurity collaboration tools, clearer AI policies, and measures to safeguard digital trade continuity.
- Q: Why is cybersecurity a key focus for Amiti? A: Cybersecurity is crucial for addressing contemporary challenges posed by new technologies. Amiti seeks to strengthen T-MEC Chapter 19’s provisions on cybersecurity to effectively mitigate regional and global cyber threats.
- Q: How does Amiti view data transfer and residency? A: Amiti advocates for maintaining free data flow as a norm for the region while acknowledging the need to address challenges posed by financial transactions and geopolitical tensions.
- Q: What are Amiti’s concerns regarding the proposed US tariffs on export services? A: Amiti is concerned that the proposed 25% tariff on certain export services would contradict T-MEC’s spirit and negatively impact the regional technology sector.
