Mexico's Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard said the review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will not be conducted via a fast track mechanism.
This approach signals a preference for methodical diplomacy over rapid implementation, potentially slowing the pace of trade adjustments between the three North American partners. By avoiding an accelerated process, Mexico seeks to ensure that all parties have established clear priorities before formal deadlines arrive.
Speaking at the National Palace in Mexico City during a morning conference hosted by President Claudia Sheinbaum, Ebrard said that the process will instead require dialogue and negotiation among the participating countries. He said that the goal is to avoid a hurried negotiation that could overlook critical national interests.
"La revisión del T‑MEC no será por fast track," Ebrard said [2].
The Mexican official said that there is no need to rush the proceedings. He said that it is essential for each country to understand its own objectives before moving forward with the review.
"Es muy importante tener claro qué quiere cada país antes de esa fecha y avanzar en lo que corresponde," Ebrard said [3].
According to reports, Mexico and the U.S. had previously agreed to a start date for the review in May 2024 [4]. This timeline sets the stage for the upcoming discussions, though Ebrard maintained a patient stance regarding the speed of the outcome.
"No hay prisa," Ebrard said [1].
The Secretary's comments suggest that Mexico intends to use the dialogue phase to secure a comprehensive understanding of the agreement's impact. This strategy aims to prevent the types of frictions that often arise when trade treaties are modified under extreme time pressure, a move that could protect specific industrial sectors within the Mexican economy.
“"La revisión del T‑MEC no será por fast track."”
The rejection of a 'fast track' process indicates that Mexico is prioritizing strategic leverage and precision over speed. By insisting on a slower, dialogue-driven review, Mexico aims to mitigate the risk of accepting unfavorable terms that might occur during a rushed negotiation, ensuring that the USMCA evolves in a way that protects its domestic economic priorities.
