Mexico City: Mexico has formally kicked off a nationwide public consultation process concerning the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), signaling a proactive approach to the upcoming six-year review of the trade pact. The consultation, announced through the country’s official gazette, seeks to gather feedback from citizens, businesses, industry groups, and other stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the agreement’s impact.
Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard emphasized that this initiative reflects Mexico’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity in shaping its trade policy. “We want to hear from all sectors of society on how the USMCA has affected Mexican industries, commerce, and labor,” Ebrard stated. Officials noted that the input collected will help Mexico present informed positions during the scheduled review of the pact in 2026.
The USMCA, which replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 2020, mandates a joint review among Mexico, the United States, and Canada six years after implementation. While the formal review is planned for next year, Mexican authorities have opted to start consultations early to identify challenges, address uncertainties, and propose adjustments where needed.
According to the Ministry of Economy, the consultation period will last for 60 days, allowing ample time for stakeholders to submit detailed feedback. The process also includes public forums and opportunities for written submissions, ensuring that voices from small businesses, industrial associations, and labor groups are taken into account.
Analysts view Mexico’s early consultation as a strategic move to strengthen its negotiating position and ensure that the USMCA continues to support the country’s economic priorities. With trade relations between North American partners evolving in the face of global market shifts, Mexico aims to enter the review process with a clear understanding of domestic needs and potential areas for improvement.
The consultation reflects a broader trend of participatory policymaking in Mexico, highlighting the government’s intent to make trade agreements more responsive to both economic realities and public concerns.