Mexico and the United States will launch the first formal bilateral round of talks on March 16 in Washington to review the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (T-MEC), announced by Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard on March 5 following agreement with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. Discussions will cover rules of origin, industrial integration, supply chain security, and regional competitiveness, as Mexico's private sector expresses optimism.
The T-MEC, effective since July 1, 2020, requires a review starting in July 2026 under Chapter 34 after six years. This allows a 16-year term with potential 16-year extensions if confirmed in writing; otherwise, annual reviews could ensue, risking uncertainty for investors.
Ebrard announced the bilateral talks on March 5 via social media and media statements, establishing a formal channel ahead of the 2026 review. "We have reached an agreement with Ambassador Jamieson Greer to start from March 16 a first bilateral round of formally established conversations," he stated. Key topics include rules of origin, boosting regional production, North American industrial integration for competitiveness against other regions, and supply chain security to prioritize T-MEC parties.
The T-MEC Free Trade Commission, comprising Ebrard, Greer, and Canada's Minister of Trade Dominic LeBlanc, will oversee the process. Mexico seeks to maintain tariff advantages and prevent stricter rules of origin that could erode its preferential access.
Mexico's private sector is optimistic. José Medina Mora Icaza, president of the Business Coordinating Council (CCE), noted "favorable winds for Mexico," highlighting dialogue on rules of origin and supply chains. The CCE plans to support the government and coordinate with U.S. groups like the Business Roundtable and U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Relatedly, Canada and the U.S. resumed trade talks last Friday in Washington after a four-month suspension in October 2025 due to President Donald Trump's tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum (initially 25%, later 50%). Described as "constructive and substantive" by Canada, these involved Minister Dominic LeBlanc and Greer, potentially influencing the T-MEC review.
Mexico-U.S. trade underscores interdependence: 2025 bilateral exchange hit $872 billion (Mexican exports $534.874 billion, U.S. imports to Mexico $337.960 billion), making Mexico the U.S.'s top partner. Mexico sends ~80% of its exports to the U.S., vital for automotive and manufacturing. In January 2026, U.S. trade with Mexico exceeded Canada's by 5.3% and China's by 115%, per U.S. Department of Commerce.
