Mexican border states Chihuahua and Coahuila pause projects amid T‑MEC annual review

Mexico's northern states are signalling investment delays as the United States‑Mexico‑Canada Agreement (T‑MEC) enters its first annual review. In Chihuahua, the state secretary of Innovation and Economic Development said three border‑development projects are on hold until the review provides clearer certainty. The review follows the United States' decision not to extend the prior 16‑year term, leaving the pact in force until 2036 with a new ten‑year framework and yearly assessments.

Coahuila's economy secretary echoed the concerns, noting that while the treaty’s continued validity supports operations, the frequent reviews erode the predictability needed for long‑term projects. Both officials highlighted the importance of the agreement for sectors such as aerospace, electronics and automotive, and warned that persistent uncertainty could slow growth and employment, even though no immediate job losses are expected. State governments are coordinating with the federal authorities and an upcoming trilateral meeting on 20 July aims to address the issues.

The pause reflects broader anxieties about potential tariff or security measures under Section 232, which could affect steel, aluminum and copper imports, and underscores the strategic role of the T‑MEC in attracting capital to Mexico’s border region.