Mexico, U.S. Seek Trade Deal Before Tariff Deadline Amid Security Talks

Mexico and the U.S. are racing to finalize a trade agreement before looming tariff deadlines, as both nations navigate tensions over migration, drug trafficking, and economic policies.

Mexican Deputy Foreign Trade Minister Luis Rosendo Gutierrez confirmed ongoing discussions in Washington with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, focusing on the USMCA trade pact review, steel and aluminum concerns, and China's role in global trade. President Donald Trump has warned of a 25% tariff on Mexican and Canadian goods if stricter measures aren’t taken to curb migration and drug flow into the U.S. The new deadline for these tariffs is now April 2, delayed from March 4.

Mexican officials, including Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard, are in Washington this week for high-level talks. Ebrard is set to meet with Greer on Thursday and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Friday. Meanwhile, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged that a renegotiation of the USMCA could happen sooner than its planned 2026 review.

Security remains a major issue alongside trade, with Mexico’s entire security cabinet, including the foreign minister, military heads, and attorney general, scheduled to meet U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday. Mexico continues to push for U.S. cooperation in preventing firearms from reaching criminal groups.

Both countries aim for a coordinated approach to trade and security while maintaining sovereignty. These negotiations could shape the future of North American trade and diplomatic relations.