Ebrard: Mexico Does Not Triangulate Asian Products; Accusations Aimed at T-MEC Talks

Mexican Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard has refuted claims by U.S. officials that Mexican exports to the United States are merely triangulated products from Asia. Ebrard characterized these accusations as pressure tactics employed during critical phases of the review for the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (T-MEC).

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I get the impression that this argument comes up every time we enter more important phases of the negotiations.

Speaking at the InnovaFest in Querétaro, Ebrard asserted that Mexico will present evidence to the U.S. demonstrating that its exports are not a means to circumvent tariffs on Chinese goods. He clarified the distinction between product triangulation and direct imports, noting that the U.S. itself imports components from Taiwan for final assembly in Mexico without them becoming U.S. products. Ebrard also questioned the validity of the accusations by pointing out that U.S. imports from China are significantly higher than Mexico's.

Ebrard expressed optimism regarding the T-MEC review, describing the progress as having "substantive agreements." He welcomed the recent resolution of steel and aluminum tariffs between the U.S. and Canada, viewing it as a positive development that has reopened dialogue. Mexico has communicated its own considerations and is pursuing all avenues to reach a similar agreement with the U.S.

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The redelivery of products cannot be confused with direct imports made by a country.

Furthermore, Ebrard addressed the issue of U.S. countervailing duties on Mexican strawberries. He stated that Mexico will present its arguments in the coming weeks to prevent the preliminary ruling from becoming final. The Mexican government is working with its legal team to prepare these arguments. Ebrard also emphasized the need to accelerate patent registrations and facilitate easier pathways for entrepreneurs to access investment funds, which he believes is crucial for boosting the country's innovation and technological development.

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I am pleased with the agreement between the United States and Canada because there is already dialogue, which was not seen in recent weeks.