IFB Members Explore Mexico Trade Links Ahead of USMCA Review

By Andi Anderson

Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) members recently traveled to Mexico to deepen their understanding of agricultural trade ahead of the first six‑year review of the United States‑Mexico‑Canada Agreement (USMCA).

The Market Study Tour, held March 9‑13 in Mexico City, offered participants an inside look at how U.S. agriculture supports Mexico’s food system and how future negotiations may affect farmers.

During the visit, Estefanía Perez, deputy director for the U.S. Grains and BioProducts Council (USGBC), explained that agriculture was not part of the agenda when the first round of USMCA talks began March 16.

She stated, “The agricultural chapter is not within the first round of conversations,” noting that issues related to automobiles and electronics were prioritized. However, she added that the agricultural sector remains a major part of upcoming discussions, saying, “We are pending … (and) are just ready for when they will talk about these (agriculture) topics.”

U.S. agricultural exports to Canada and Mexico have increased by $20 billion since USMCA took effect in 2020, reaching $60 billion in 2024. Mexico alone accounts for more than 17% of U.S. agricultural exports, relying heavily on imported grains and pork.

At the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City, USDA official Sean Cox shared that Mexico remains a top buyer of U.S. corn, soybeans, and meat, with corn and soybean exports valued at over $8 billion and meat exports close to $6 billion in 2025.

Trade flows both ways. The U.S. imports vegetables, avocados, beer, and other goods from Mexico, totaling $44 billion. Combined agricultural trade reached nearly $75 billion in 2025.

The group also learned about growing interest in ethanol. Consultant Vladimir Saldana told members that Mexico is studying ethanol blending models from the U.S. and Brazil.

He said ethanol could “be a win” during USMCA discussions as both nations explore ways to strengthen cooperation.

Meat trade remains a sensitive issue. Gerardo Rodriguez Sanchez of the U.S. Meat Export Federation highlighted Mexico’s reliance on U.S. pork and beef, saying, “We know our strengths, and we know our weaknesses.”

As the 2036 expiration date approaches, IFB encourages expanding market access while protecting existing benefits within the agreement.

Photo Credit: illinois-farm-bureau