USMCA review process intensifies as Mexico and U.S. prepare for trade negotiations

Mexico and the United States are preparing for the upcoming review of the USMCA (T-MEC) trade agreement. In Mexico, federal deputy Juan Carlos Valladares Eichelmann met with Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón to discuss the strategic importance of the treaty. The discussions focused on enhancing competitiveness, attracting investment, and strengthening North American production chains to ensure Mexican companies can participate more effectively in regional supply networks.

In the United States, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has issued a public consultation notice regarding the 2027 review. Observations of the new notice indicate a shift in language compared to previous years. Notably, certain phrases regarding balanced trade and alignment with Mexico and Canada have been removed, and the North American Competitiveness Committee is no longer highlighted. The USTR documentation also reflects that the United States did not agree to a 16-year extension, meaning joint reviews will occur annually until a decision is reached or the agreement expires in 2036.