Chinese Investors Can Still Benefit from USMCA Despite U.S.-China Tensions, Says Mexican Ambassador

Chinese investors operating in North America are expected to continue enjoying the benefits of the USMCA trade agreement, despite intensifying geopolitical tensions between China and the United States, according to Mexico’s ambassador to China.

Speaking at a recent economic forum, the envoy emphasized that the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement does not discriminate based on the nationality of investors, as long as companies meet the agreement’s rules of origin and regulatory requirements. “Chinese firms that establish a legal and compliant presence in Mexico can fully participate in the advantages USMCA offers,” the ambassador noted.

This reassurance comes as U.S.-China competition sharpens across trade, technology, and security. Still, Mexico remains eager to attract foreign investment—especially in key sectors such as manufacturing, automotive, and renewable energy—by positioning itself as a strategic bridge between Asia and North America.

The Mexican government has recently seen a surge in Chinese interest in nearshoring operations, spurred by supply chain realignments and rising costs in Asia. Officials believe that, with proper structuring, Chinese companies can play a major role in regional trade without becoming entangled in the broader China-U.S. rivalry.

Analysts say the envoy’s comments reflect Mexico’s balancing act: leveraging global tensions to attract investment while maintaining neutrality and upholding trade obligations under USMCA.

Ruth Forbes

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