Published: 15:52, March 17, 2026
Mexico eyes keeping free trade pact, scrapping tariffs in talks with US
By Xinhua

Mexico's Secretary of Economy, Marcelo Ebrard, speaks during an event to announce the results of the public consultation on the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, at the offices of the Ministry of Economy, in Mexico City on March 9, 2026. (PHOTO / AFP)

MEXICO CITY - Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard said Monday his country will propose the continuation of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) on free trade and the elimination of tariffs when he meets with US officials for the first round of bilateral discussions ahead of the trade treaty's review.

In a message posted on social media, Ebrard outlined a plan approved by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum for the start of bilateral talks, set to begin Tuesday via Zoom, followed by a round of discussions on Wednesday.

"Mexico will propose the continuation of the USMCA and the elimination of tariffs. A cool head and firmness will guide us," the minister said, without providing further details.

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The free trade deal between the three North American trade partners is up for review this year, as stipulated in the agreement.