Mexico and Canada agree on a joint plan to strengthen the USMCA

The governments of Mexico and Canada took a decisive step toward consolidating economic integration in North America through a joint action plan that seeks to strengthen bilateral trade relations and prepare the ground for negotiations on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney agreed that the region must remain united to sustain its global competitiveness.

During the press conference, Sheinbaum expressed optimism regarding the start of USMCA consultations in the United States and emphasized that much of the trade between Mexico and the United States remains tariff-free. She stressed that the treaty review should not only maintain the flow of trade, but also strengthen regional competitiveness and prepare North America to face competition from other regions of the world.

Carney explained that both countries signed an action plan that will serve as the basis for the USMCA review. This agreement will align objectives, identify areas for improvement, and consolidate supply chains involving the three countries. The Canadian Prime Minister emphasized the importance of joint collaboration, noting that trade and economic integration between Mexico, Canada, and the United States represent the region's strength compared to other global markets.

The action plan not only seeks to improve competitiveness between the three countries but also generate direct benefits for the citizens of Mexico and Canada. Sheinbaum noted that trade between the two countries has grown tenfold over the last 30 years and is confident that, with this plan, growth will continue, benefiting companies in various sectors, including the automotive industry, which integrates components and production from the three countries.

In addition to trade, both leaders emphasized the importance of security cooperation. Carney mentioned that combating organized crime requires information sharing and joint strategies. Sheinbaum emphasized Mexico's interest in learning about Canada's progress in cybersecurity and strengthening the fight against cybercrime, while always respecting the sovereignty of each nation.

The meeting was structured in three phases: a meeting between leaders, joint work with ministers, and a space that included business leaders from both countries. Sheinbaum emphasized that this approach will allow for coordinating actions in different areas, consolidating trade chains, and strengthening economic integration in the region, setting a precedent for future negotiations within the USMCA.

Carney noted that the automotive industry is a prime example of regional cooperation: vehicles produced in North America contain components from all three countries, demonstrating how economic and trade integration can generate competitive advantages in other international markets.