WASHINGTON – United States Trade Representative Katherine Tai today held a virtual meeting with Mexico’s Secretary of Economy, Tatiana Clouthier, on the eve of the first Free Trade Commission (FTC) meeting of the United States – Mexico – Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Ambassador Tai and Secretary Clouthier began by noting the longstanding relationship between the United States and Mexico. They also discussed the importance of fully implementing the USMCA, including its strengthened environment obligations and provisions related to Mexico’s continued implementation of its historic labor reforms.
Ambassador Tai and Secretary Clouthier discussed the importance of cooperation to help end the COVID-19 pandemic and combat the trade of goods made with forced labor. Ambassador Tai emphasized the importance of several ongoing issues, including: science- and risk-based regulatory approaches in agriculture; access for U.S. fresh potatoes to all of Mexico; an immediate resumption of authorizations of agricultural biotechnology products in Mexico; an energy policy that respects U.S. investment and is consistent with efforts to tackle climate change; and enhanced trade facilitation efforts. Ambassador Tai and Secretary Clouthier expressed their shared anticipation of a robust FTC and agreed to stay in regular communication.
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