Canadian Concerns and Mexican Relations
For several weeks, I have been conversing with Canadian journalists in Washington. Yes, what you think is correct; they view the daily chaos in the United States with the same disbelief as we do. Just like Mexicans, Canadians are astonished by President Donald Trump’s unrestrained comments, claiming that Mexico and Canada rely on the United States’ generosity. Trump harshly criticizes his northern and southern neighbors, alleging they take advantage of the favorable treatment the U.S. extends to them.
The Impact of US Trade Disputes
In 2025, with the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) being the most successful in modern times, one would expect increased wealth and prosperity in Mexico and Canada. However, Canadian journalists I’ve been interacting with express their doubts about how this episode will conclude. They believe it cannot end well.
Naturally, media reports emphasize the significant pressure these US tariffs exert on the US-Canada-Mexico trade agreement. Interestingly, Canadian and Mexican negotiators involved in crafting the agreement have been quoted in media outlets like Global News, stating that Trump’s tariffs “completely overwhelm” the trade pact and could render it valueless.
Trump’s actions have placed Canada and Mexico in a worse position than other countries, making us companions in the same predicament.
Canadian Interest in Strengthening Mexico Ties
“The enemy of my enemy is my friend” – this adage seems to resonate with Canadian journalists and myself, despite the discomfort of referring to the US as an adversary. Canadian media outlets define the current trade uncertainty caused by the US actions as a “historic opportunity” for Canada and Mexico to bolster their bilateral trade and investment ties.
Canadian media, including radio, television, written press, and digital platforms, highlight Canada’s potential to mutually supply Mexico instead of relying on other international partners or the US. Reports in both English and French suggest that Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum have directly discussed increasing bilateral trade as a strategy to mitigate the impact of US tariffs.
Quebec governmental organizations and business associations, like the Montreal Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce (CCMM), actively promote Mexico as a market and organize commercial missions to assist Quebec businesses in establishing contacts and exploring opportunities.
Canadian media identifies trade between the two countries as a priority market, even before the recent tariff crisis. The challenging situation created by Trump appears to be accelerating this approach, according to Canadian media coverage.
Canadian commentators and analysts assert that Trump’s tariff policy clearly indicates the need for Canada and Mexico to diversify their trade relations. Mexico is presented as a logical partner and an opportunity to leverage existing agreements like the USMCA and CPTPP in Canadian media.
“CSIS, Mayberry Inv,” cites Mexico for its geographical proximity and potential in sectors like mining and energy, urging increased reciprocity. “The Western Producer” reports that Mexican leaders have indicated they would seek Canada and other countries for trade if Trump insists on persisting with US tariffs.
Canadians view Mexico as a strategic ally, particularly in agriculture. “Negocios en Vancouver” acknowledges that, historically, Canada-Mexico trade has not reached its full potential despite existing agreements among the three North American countries. The current US trade actions’ climate strongly impels the Canadian government.
Canadians see this as an opportunity for business promotion agencies and political leadership to emphasize and actively seek closer trade relations with Mexico.
Mexican Skepticism
We Mexicans remain skeptical of those offering trinkets in exchange for gold. Perhaps that’s why Canadian outlets like Associated Press and CBC News have extensively covered the economic uncertainty and diversification resulting from the new US relationship for all three North American countries.
Canadian and Mexican integration with the US is being reconsidered due to these developments, as reported by CBC News. Government communications highlighted in the press, such as those on “Global Affairs Canada,” reiterate the strong and enduring bilateral relationship between Canada and Mexico (over 80 years of diplomatic ties).
Canadian media refers to “key aspects with Mexico,” including:
- Bilateral Strength: Canada and Mexico have much to offer each other due to significant trade. Mexico is Canada’s third-largest goods trading partner after the US and China, with nearly $55 billion in bilateral trade in 2023.
- Substantial Canadian Investment in Mexico: With $40.4 billion in 2023, it ranks as Canada’s ninth-most important investment destination.
- Vital Tourism and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SATP): Mexico is a significant sender, and Canada is the recipient in this program.
- Business Development Mechanisms:
- The Canada-Mexico Alliance and the Plan of Action Canada-Mexico, both aimed at building prosperous, sustainable, and competitive societies.
In Summary:
Recent Canadian media coverage highlights a growing relationship between Canada and Mexico due to the shared challenge of US protectionism. Most importantly, it presents an enormous potential for creating a win-win project for the people of both countries.
Now you know something we hadn’t given much attention to… What do Canadians think about Mexico?
