T-MEC to Remain in Force Until 2036 Even Without US Extension, Sheinbaum Says

The T-MEC trade deal between Mexico, the US, and Canada will stay in effect until 2036 even if the United States does not agree to a 16-year extension during the review process that began July 1, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum stated Source: excelsiormx. The treaty's mechanism allows for annual reviews until 2036 if no extension is granted, and the three parties can still agree to extend at any point during that period Source: infobae.

Review Process

On July 1, a virtual meeting was held between Mexican Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, and Canadian Minister Dominic LeBlanc to formally start the six-year review Source: lajornadamx. Mexico and Canada have already notified their desire to extend the treaty by 16 years Source: heraldomx. If the US does not concur, the deal undergoes annual reviews until 2036, with the possibility of extension later Source: excelsiormx.

Political Context

Sheinbaum said Mexico has a "Plan B" ready but is waiting for the US formal position Source: infobae. She noted that President Donald Trump has a protectionist agenda but emphasized that any US withdrawal would require congressional approval Source: lajornadamx. Despite uncertainties, Sheinbaum expressed optimism about the treaty's continuity, highlighting support from businesses in all three countries Source: diariolibree.