Exploring the Future of Trade and Nearshoring: Insights from “Trump 2.0: Tariffs and USMCA Review” with Kenneth Smith
Invest Monterrey and the Automotive Cluster of Nuevo León (CLAUT) successfully concluded their event, ‘Trump 2.0: Tariffs and USMCA Review,’ featuring valuable insights from Kenneth Smith, former USMCA negotiator.
Event Overview
On January 28th, Invest Monterrey and the Automotive Cluster of Nuevo León (CLAUT) successfully hosted the event ‘Trump 2.0: Tariffs and USMCA Review’ at the EGADE Business School of Tecnológico de Monterrey. The conference addressed the evolving trade landscape and its implications for Mexico and the region. Industry leaders and academics gathered to discuss key economic factors shaping 2025 and beyond.
Keynote Address by Kenneth Smith
Kenneth Smith, former USMCA negotiator and chairman of the Mexico-U.S. Bilateral Committee, delivered the keynote presentation. His talk, titled “Trump 2.0: Tariffs and USMCA Review,” provided critical insights into potential policy shifts and their effects on the bilateral trade relationship between Mexico and the United States.
“All products traded between Mexico and the U.S., and most with Canada—aside from certain exceptions in the agricultural sector—are tariff-free. This makes Mexico an attractive destination for companies worldwide looking to invest, manufacture locally, and benefit from the Mexican market while exporting to the United States and Canada.” – Kenneth Smith
Economic Outlook for 2025
Roberto Pérez, from MONEX, presented a comprehensive analysis of the economic prospects for the upcoming year. He highlighted opportunities and challenges businesses may face in navigating the complex global trade environment. His insights helped attendees understand the factors that will influence economic growth and investment decisions in 2025.
Panel Discussion: The Future of Nearshoring
The event concluded with a dynamic panel discussion titled “The Future of Nearshoring in Trump’s Era.” Kenneth Smith joined a distinguished group of panelists, including:
– Paulina González, American Industries
– Sofía Flores, Terra Regia
– Félix Cárdenas, EGADE Business School
The discussion focused on how nearshoring can strengthen Mexico’s role in global supply chains. Panelists explored strategies for regional collaboration and ways to mitigate the uncertainties of evolving trade policies.
“Around 75% of nearshoring investment in Mexico is concentrated in the country’s border states. The key advantage is that attracting high-tech and advanced manufacturing—such as cloud computing and artificial intelligence—to Nuevo León creates significant opportunities. It not only strengthens connections with bordering U.S. states but also opens doors to markets further north. The potential is truly immense.” – Kenneth Smith
Conclusion
The event attracted Invest Monterrey partners, business leaders, trade experts, and academics, all committed to fostering economic growth and collaboration. By addressing critical trade issues and nearshoring opportunities, the conference reinforced Monterrey’s position as a key player in North America’s economic landscape.
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