In the ongoing review of the Mexico-US-Canada Agreement (T-MEC), Mexico's Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard highlighted persistent differences with the US, especially on tariffs and rules of origin, as the second round of bilateral talks continues in Mexico City. Mexico pushes for minimal trade barriers, while the US favors more tariffs and stricter rules.
Following initial rounds in Washington and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer's recent visit to Mexico City—where he met President Claudia Sheinbaum and Ebrard—the negotiations show partial progress but significant challenges, Ebrard said at the launch of the 'Embajadores de la Innovación' program. 'It doesn't mean we agree on everything, nor will it be easy... there are many uncertainties,' he told media.
Mexico prioritizes open trade with few barriers, contrasting the US push for structural changes including permanent tariffs and tougher rules of origin in sectors like autos, steel, and aluminum. Ebrard noted full tariff elimination is unlikely but reduction possible; automotive tariffs are already below 25% in most cases.
Greer, post-visit, informed the US House Ways and Means Committee that Mexico supports a bilateral protocol to tweak T-MEC while preserving its trilateral framework. He also sought safeguards for US investments, citing the Vulcan Materials case.
The second round began Monday and remains underway, with Mexico emphasizing its role as a US ally in building regional supply chains to lessen Asia reliance.
