As the United States pushes for higher tariffs, Mexico and Canada are finalizing trade deals to boost cooperation and reduce reliance on U.S. markets. Leaders recently met to advance the North Belt Plan, which would create direct land and sea routes between the two nations, cutting costs and bypassing U.S. territory by 2028.
President Donald Trump has imposed a 35% tariff on certain Canadian goods and delayed a similar move against Mexico for 90 days after tough negotiations blocked a 30% hike. Despite ongoing tariff threats, Mexico remains the U.S.’s top trading partner, with exports up 6% in the first half of the year to $264.38 billion.
The North Belt Plan could offset stricter U.S. trade rules under the USMCA, especially in the automotive and agricultural sectors. Mexico and Canada are also collaborating on advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and technology.
In other developments, Trump hinted at new protections for migrant farmworkers, acknowledging their economic value. Meanwhile, in San Luis Potosí, Governor Ricardo Gallardo Cardona faces allegations of financing a spy network targeting political opponents, with investigations ongoing.