May 16th, 2025
1. Mexico proposes to tighten USMCA rules and add a chapter on semiconductors
After the Secretary of Economy announced that the review of the T-MEC will be brought forward to the second half of 2025, it was reported that the Mexican government will propose the inclusion of a specific chapter on semiconductors and the updating of the rules of origin, in order to curb the triangulation of Asian products – mainly Chinese – that enter the North American market with tariff benefits. The proposal seeks to strengthen regional integration in strategic sectors such as automotive, steel and chips, which are key to competitiveness with Asia.
This initiative could result in new requirements for supply chains operating under the agreement, which will require an early assessment of regional content and traceability of inputs. For the private sector, this opens up opportunities to relocate operations, attract investment in advanced manufacturing and position itself as a reliable supplier in the region.
2. Companies join the “Made in Mexico” plan to increase the presence of domestic products
The Secretary of Economy, Marcelo Ebrard, announced an agreement with companies in the commercial and digital sector to promote the “Made in Mexico” program, with the aim of giving greater visibility and space to national products in supermarkets, convenience stores and e-commerce platforms. The strategy includes a new distinctive seal, promotional campaigns and financing mechanisms for Mexican producers.
For companies, this plan opens up opportunities for both established brands and SMEs seeking to position their products in the domestic market and project them abroad. It is also in line with the government’s efforts to reduce dependence on imports, promote local consumption and strengthen the domestic value chain, especially in the context of industry relocation.
3. Mexican Senate rejects US proposal to tax remittances 5%
The Mexican Senate expressed its rejection of the proposal of the U.S. Congress to apply a 5% tax on remittances sent by migrants. The measure, promoted by Republican legislators, was described as a form of double taxation that would directly affect millions of Mexican families and could discourage the use of formal channels for sending money.
From the private sector, this proposal represents a possible risk for the stability of one of the main financial flows to Mexico, which in 2024 exceeded $63 billion. If approved in the U.S., it would increase informality in transfers, affecting banks, fintechs and the financial inclusion of recipient communities. Mexico has asked to open a diplomatic channel to prevent this initiative from moving forward.
Proceso: Senado rechaza propuesta de EU sobre imponer impuesto del 5% a las remesas
4. Government eliminates controversial article in Telecommunications Law and strengthens focus on connectivity
The Mexican government has decided to eliminate Article 109 of the new Telecommunications and Broadcasting Law, which generated controversy for allowing the government to block digital platforms without a clear definition of the causes. José Antonio Peña Merino, head of the Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency (ATDT), assured that the reform does not imply censorship, but seeks to promote connectivity and access to digital services for the population.
In addition, Article 210 is maintained, which prohibits the transmission of political, ideological or commercial propaganda of foreign governments in national media, with exceptions for cultural, tourist or sports purposes. The reform also transfers to the Executive the administration of the radio electric spectrum, previously in charge of the Federal Telecommunications Institute, and establishes that the ATDT will be responsible for granting concessions and supervising broadcasts.
El Universal: No hay censura en Ley de Telecomunicaciones, se promueve la conectividad: Peña Merino; Artículo 109 se elimina
5. Mexico reaffirms its commitment to international cooperation at the China-CELAC Forum
In the framework of the IV Ministerial Meeting of the China-Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) Forum, Mexico’s Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Juan Ramón de la Fuente, expressed the country’s support for initiatives that promote openness and the strengthening of ties between nations, as well as projects that complement regional and multilateral efforts in cooperation and development.
During the event, China presented an action plan to strengthen “regional autonomy” in the long term, which includes five key areas: political solidarity, development and infrastructure, shared civilization, regional peace and people-to-people connectivity. This plan calls for the implementation of at least 100 projects over the next three years and a credit line of more than US$9 billion for CELAC countries. For Mexican companies, this initiative could represent investment and collaboration opportunities in infrastructure and development projects in the region, as well as in the areas of technology and sustainability.
El Economista: México reafirma su apoyo a la cooperación internacional en Foro China-Celac