Mexico City, Sep 19 — Canada and Mexico have signed a comprehensive strategic partnership to strengthen economic and security ties ahead of expected tough negotiations with the United States on a trilateral trade deal.
The agreement, inked by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, outlines plans to develop ports, rail networks, and energy corridors, while addressing crime and environmental protection.
Carney said at a joint press conference, “Today, we’re beginning a new era of elevated co-operation… this partnership will complement CUSMA and reinforce the strength of our economies.” Sheinbaum added in Spanish that the agreement benefits all three countries.
As part of the deal, Canada’s Minister of Agriculture Heath MacDonald will visit Mexico next month to explore trade opportunities, followed by a trade mission led by Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc.
The pact also includes $9.9 million in UN-led funding to combat drugs and support migrant integration.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce welcomed the announcement, calling it a key step to unlock Canada-Mexico trade potential. Catherine Fortin-LeFaivre highlighted Mexico’s role as one of Canada’s top three trading partners and confirmed a business delegation will visit Mexico in Feb 2026 to translate momentum into concrete opportunities.
Short-term work visas and expanding ocean trade routes were also discussed, with both countries agreeing to maintain visa arrangements and continue labor ministry collaboration.
Experts note that Canada and Mexico are keen to rebuild relations with the U.S., often viewing each other more as competitors than partners. The automotive sector remains a key focus, with U.S. tariffs aimed at increasing domestic production.
Sheinbaum emphasized that Carney’s visit is not meant to undermine continental trade, stating Mexico wants stronger trade with Canada and expects Canadian mining companies to meet environmental standards.
Bilateral trade is growing, with nearly $56 billion in two-way merchandise trade in 2024 and $46.4 billion in direct investment in Mexico.
