Introduction
The Mexican Competitiveness Institute (Imco) has recommended that Mexico actively engage in the public consultations taking place in the United States to advocate for North American regional integration. This comes as both the US and Mexico have initiated public consultation processes in preparation for the first six-year review of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (T-MEC) in July 2026.
Background on T-MEC and Public Consultations
According to Article 34.7 of the T-MEC, the agreement will undergo its first six-year review in July 2026. In anticipation of this, the US and Mexico began public consultation processes in September of this year to gather comments, evidence, and proposals from citizens, businesses, organizations, and experts.
Key sectors in Mexico, such as automotive, steel, aluminum, and copper, are currently subject to paid tariffs when exporting their products to the US. Demonstrating a negative impact on both nations is crucial, making it essential for Mexico to capitalize on the consultation process to promote North American regional integration.
Imco’s Recommendations
Imco has proposed that Mexico should:
- Lobby in the US with Mexican companies operating significantly there, American firms with substantial Mexican operations, key legislators, business chambers, research centers, and state governments.
- Organize hearings through the Senate of the Republic’s Commission for Following Up on the Implementation and Review of the T-MEC to create an open and plural space for idea exchange among sectors.
Key Sectors and Their Current Status
Some critical Mexican sectors, including automotive, steel, aluminum, and copper, face tariffs when exporting to the US. These industries must demonstrate a negative impact on both countries to advocate for tariff reductions or eliminations during the T-MEC review process.
Importance of Collaboration
By engaging in the US public consultations and fostering collaboration with key stakeholders, Mexico can effectively advocate for changes that benefit its export-oriented industries. This proactive approach will help ensure that the T-MEC review process addresses concerns and promotes a more integrated North American market.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the T-MEC and when is its first review scheduled? The T-MEC is a trade agreement between Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Its first six-year review is scheduled for July 2026, as per Article 34.7 of the agreement.
- Which Mexican sectors are currently affected by US tariffs? Key sectors, such as automotive, steel, aluminum, and copper, face tariffs when exporting to the US.
- What is Imco’s recommendation for Mexico during the T-MEC review process? Imco advises Mexico to actively participate in US public consultations, collaborate with key stakeholders, and organize hearings to advocate for a more integrated North American market.
