Background on Key Figures and Relevance
Luis De la Calle, the director general of De La Calle, Madrazo, Mancera, emphasized Canada’s importance in the upcoming review of the T-MEC (Transpacific Trade Agreement) scheduled for 2026. This statement was made during the conference “México y la relación con Estados Unidos” at the 88th Bancaria Convention.
Kimberly Breier, a senior advisor at Covington & Burling, also highlighted Mexico’s significance to the United States in various aspects due to their geographical proximity. Rafael Fernández de Castro, director of the Mexico-US Studies Center at the University of California, San Diego, discussed how Mexico can demonstrate its essential role in managing migration to the U.S.
Canada’s Role in T-MEC Negotiations
De la Calle stressed that both Mexico and Canada are crucial for each other in the T-MEC negotiations. He explained that the United States tends to seek bilateral negotiations with its North American partners, making it essential for both Mexico and Canada to be actively involved.
He further advised that Mexico should approach the T-MEC review with a proactive agenda, focusing on what Mexico can offer the United States rather than reacting to changes.
Opportunities for Mexico Amidst U.S.-China Tensions
Breier pointed out that the rivalry between the United States and China, particularly in trade, presents a generational opportunity for Mexico to attract investments. Fernández de Castro echoed this sentiment, stating that Mexico should capitalize on its role in managing migration to the U.S.
An example of Mexico’s importance is its contribution to reducing border crossings. In 2023, the U.S. Border Patrol detained over 300,000 individuals attempting to enter the U.S. Currently, that number is around 11,000, largely due to Mexico’s efforts in filtering migrant traffic towards the northern border.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the T-MEC? The Transpacific Trade Agreement (T-MEC) is a trade agreement between Mexico, the United States, and Canada that aims to modernize and enforce rules of origin, promote fair trade practices, and strengthen labor and environmental protections.
- Why is Canada crucial for Mexico in the T-MEC review? Both countries are essential to each other in negotiations, as the United States tends to seek bilateral agreements with its North American partners. An active involvement from both Mexico and Canada ensures their interests are considered.
- What opportunities does the U.S.-China rivalry present for Mexico? The tensions between the U.S. and China, especially in trade, offer Mexico a chance to attract investments by demonstrating its strategic importance in various aspects, including migration management.
- How has Mexico contributed to managing U.S. border crossings? Mexico’s efforts in filtering migrant traffic have significantly reduced the number of individuals attempting to cross the U.S. border, from over 300,000 in 2023 to around 11,000 currently.
