Introduction to Marcelo Ebrard and the T-MEC
Marcelo Ebrard, Mexico’s Secretary of Economy, announced on Friday that he will meet with representatives from 30 productive sectors to gather information and comments on the review of the Tratado entre México, Estados Unidos y Canadá (T-MEC). This initiative marks a departure from traditional consultation methods, such as the “Cuarto de Junto,” which Ebrard described as a more exclusive and limited mechanism.
Who is Marcelo Ebrard?
Marcelo Ebrard is the Secretary of Foreign Relations and serves as the primary representative for Mexico in international negotiations, including trade agreements. As a seasoned politician with extensive experience in urban development and public works, Ebrard’s role in shaping Mexico’s economic policies is crucial.
Why is the T-MEC Relevant?
The T-MEC, which entered into force on July 1, 2020, is a significant trade agreement between Mexico, the United States, and Canada. With an initial validity period of 16 years until 2036, the T-MEC aims to foster economic growth and cooperation among these North American nations. Regular reviews ensure the agreement remains relevant and beneficial for all parties involved.
The New Consultation Process
Ebrard emphasized that the new consultation process will be more transparent and inclusive, involving a broader range of stakeholders compared to the previous “Cuarto de Junto.” This mechanism, established in the early 1990s, has historically limited participation to a small group of representatives from the private sector and business organizations.
What is the “Cuarto de Junto”?
The “Cuarto de Junto,” also known as the Consejo Consultivo Estratégico de Negociaciones Internacionales (CCENI), is an advisory body under the Consejo Coordinador Empresarial (CCE). It has traditionally played a role in providing input during international trade negotiations and reviews.
Current Trade-Related Developments in Mexico
Two significant developments are currently underway in Mexico’s trade policy:
- Arancel Maximum Proposal: The administration of Claudia Sheinbaum proposed imposing the maximum tariff allowed by the World Trade Organization (WTO) on 1,463 product classifications within 17 strategic sectors. This initiative is part of the 2026 Economic Package, which requires legislative approval in 2025.
- Public Consultation for T-MEC Review: The Mexican government launched a 60-day public consultation period on September 17, 2022, to gather information, comments, or recommendations regarding the T-MEC review.
Stakeholder Expectations and Reactions
Various business organizations, including the Consejo Empresarial Mexicano de Comercio Exterior, Inversión y Tecnología (Comce), anticipated a consultation process similar to past engagements with the federal government. Comce stated that the “Cuarto de Junto” would actively participate in the T-MEC review process.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of the new consultation process? The new process aims to be more transparent and inclusive, involving a broader range of stakeholders compared to the previous “Cuarto de Junto” mechanism.
- What is the “Cuarto de Junto” and its role in trade negotiations? The “Cuarto de Junto,” or Consejo Consultivo Estratégico de Negociaciones Internacionales (CCENI), is an advisory body under the Consejo Coordinador Empresarial (CCE) that has traditionally provided input during international trade negotiations and reviews.
- What are the current trade-related developments in Mexico? Two significant developments include proposing maximum tariffs on specific product classifications and launching a public consultation period for the T-MEC review.
