Mexico-EU trade deal to eliminate 83% of farm tariffs, boosting exports

Mexico and the European Union have reached a significant milestone with the modernization of their Free Trade Agreement (TLCUEM), a move poised to dramatically reshape bilateral trade, particularly within the agricultural sector. This updated accord promises the elimination of 83% of agricultural tariffs, a development hailed by the National Agroindustrial Council (CNA) as a source of "relevant benefits." This significant tariff reduction is expected to unlock substantial opportunities for Mexican producers and agro-industries, fostering increased exports and strengthening national supply chains.

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will generate relevant benefits thanks to the elimination of tariffs for 83% of agri-food goods immediately.

While the agreement offers broad tariff elimination for industrial goods, the agricultural sector will see a phased approach. The remaining tariffs on key products such as orange juice, bananas, honey, tuna preparations, and various fruits and vegetables will be managed through "significant quotas and preferences." This nuanced approach acknowledges the strategic importance of these sectors while still facilitating greater market access to the EU's substantial consumer base of 450 million people.

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for strategic products such as orange juice, banana, honey, preparations and preserves of tuna, as well as various horticultural products, quotas and significant preferences will be established.

The CNA emphasizes that this modernized treaty will not only expand export capabilities but also generate more employment and increase foreign exchange earnings, ultimately contributing to the well-being of countless families in the agro-alimentary sector. For Mexico, this represents a crucial opportunity to diversify its export markets, reduce commercial risks, and solidify its global presence with high-quality, safe, and competitive agro-food products. The agreement also includes provisions for digital trade, sustainability, clean energy, and a dedicated chapter for small and medium-sized enterprises, signaling a comprehensive approach to economic partnership.

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the benefits of the treaty will allow expanding exports, strengthening productive chains and generating greater opportunities for national producers and agro-industries. This agreement will contribute to boosting economic development, generating more jobs, increasing foreign exchange earnings and strengthening the well-being of thousands of families linked to the agri-food sector.