In force since the year 2000, the Free Trade Agreement between Mexico and the European Union (TLCUEM) has transformed the commercial relationship between these two regions. This agreement has significantly fostered economic exchange, positioning the European Union (EU) as Mexico’s second-largest trading partner and a primary source of foreign direct investment (FDI). Below are the statistics, key products, and concrete benefits derived from the treaty.

Figures of Bilateral Trade

Since its implementation, trade between Mexico and the EU has seen consistent growth:

• Trade growth: Total exchange between the two regions increased by more than 148% between 2000 and 2022.
• Mexican exports to the EU: Reached approximately $27 billion USD in 2022, with an annual average growth of 6%.
• Imports from the EU: Exceeded $40 billion USD, with machinery, chemical products, and pharmaceuticals leading the list.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): The EU accounts for more than 35% of total FDI in Mexico, with over 8,000 European companies established in the country.

Main Products Exported by Mexico

Mexican products that stand out in trade with the EU include:

1. Automobiles and auto parts: Represent 50% of exports to Europe, with companies like Volkswagen and BMW playing a key role.
2. Agricultural products: Avocados, tropical fruits, and processed goods such as juices and purées are in high demand.
3. Alcoholic beverages: Tequila and beer have shown 10% annual growth in European markets.
4. Mining products: Gold and silver are essential to trade, accounting for 15% of total exports to the EU.

Products Imported from the European Union

Mexico primarily imports high-value-added goods, such as:

1. Industrial machinery and technology: Essential for advanced manufacturing and the automotive industry.
2. Pharmaceutical products: The EU supplies over 20% of the pharmaceutical market in Mexico, with companies like Bayer and Sanofi leading the sector.
3. Luxury goods: Watches, clothing, and cars from European brands are highly demanded in the Mexican market.

Specific Benefits of the TLCUEM

The agreement has generated multiple tangible benefits for both regions:

• Tariff reduction: Over 97% of products exchanged benefit from reduced or eliminated tariffs.
• Market access: Mexican companies have access to 500 million European consumers, while European firms gain a bridge to Latin America.
• Trade diversification: Mexico has reduced its dependency on the United States, strengthening its economy with a key trading partner.
• Investment promotion: The treaty’s stability has incentivized investments in sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Outlook with the Modernization of the TLCUEM

The updated agreement, negotiated in 2018 and awaiting ratification in some European countries, includes:

• Improved access: Greater openness in dairy, meat, and agricultural product markets.
• Sustainability: Clear rules to protect the environment and labor rights.
• Digital trade: Standards to facilitate the digital economy and protect intellectual property.

Conclusion

The TLCUEM has been crucial for Mexico’s economic growth and its integration with Europe. With a robust trade balance and tangible benefits in key sectors, the modernization of the agreement promises to further strengthen this strategic relationship, benefiting both partners in an increasingly interconnected world.

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