Background on Marcelo Ebrard and His Role
Marcelo Ebrard, the Secretary of Economy in Mexico, recently addressed the Junta de Coordinación Política of the Cámara de Diputados regarding the Tratado entre México, Estados Unidos y Canadá (T-MEC).
Ebrard, a prominent figure in Mexican politics and an integral part of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s administration, has been instrumental in shaping Mexico’s economic policies and international trade agreements. His role as the Secretary of Economy places him at the forefront of negotiations and discussions concerning Mexico’s trade relations with other nations, including the United States and Canada.
Current Status of T-MEC Negotiations
During his address, Ebrard highlighted that 85 conversations between Mexican and U.S. officials have taken place concerning tariffs and the T-MEC review, with 90% of negotiated topics already finalized.
He emphasized that while some changes may occur during the planned 2026 review, he does not anticipate substantial alterations to the agreement. Ebrard’s optimism stems from the ongoing collaborative process between Mexico, the United States, and Canada to assess the T-MEC’s performance and propose potential modifications.
Key Points of T-MEC Review
- The review process involves a joint evaluation by the United States, Mexico, and Canada of the T-MEC’s functionality.
- It allows for proposing amendments and deciding whether to extend the treaty for an additional 16 years.
- The primary goal is to ensure Mexico maintains its favorable position relative to other countries regarding tariffs on U.S. customs, a target already accomplished by Ebrard’s administration.
Tariff Developments and Ebrard’s Stance
Currently, U.S. customs impose tariffs of 35% on Canadian imports, 25% on Mexican imports, and additional tariffs on light vehicles, steel, aluminum, and copper for both countries. These tariffs were imposed due to perceived insufficient cooperation on fentanyl and migration issues.
Ebrard mentioned that Mexico has presented various proposals to the United States regarding these metals, with a response still pending. He expressed hope for a positive outcome soon.
Mexico City’s Economic Package and Tariff Proposals
Under the administration of Mexico City’s President Claudia Sheinbaum, an economic package for 2026 was proposed. This package includes imposing the maximum tariff allowed by the World Trade Organization (WTO) on 1,463 product classifications across 17 strategic sectors. This initiative is part of the broader economic strategy requiring legislative approval in 2025.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the T-MEC and why is it being reviewed? The Tratado entre México, Estados Unidos y Canadá (T-MEC) is a trade agreement between the three North American countries. It will undergo a joint review in 2026 to assess its functionality and propose potential amendments.
- What tariffs currently apply to Mexico and Canada? The United States imposes 35% tariffs on Canadian imports, 25% on Mexican imports, and additional tariffs on light vehicles, steel, aluminum, and copper for both countries due to perceived insufficient cooperation on fentanyl and migration issues.
- What is Mexico’s position on tariffs? Mexico aims to maintain its favorable tariff position relative to other countries, as achieved under Ebrard’s administration. They have proposed imposing maximum WTO-allowed tariffs on specific product classifications within strategic sectors as part of their 2026 economic package.
