Mexico Pushes for US Trade Deal Before Midterms

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Friday that her government is working to secure a trade agreement with the United States as quickly as possible, following what she described as a productive conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump earlier this week.

“We are doing everything we can, within the framework of sovereignty, respect, and what is best for Mexico, to reach a deal soon,” Sheinbaum said during her daily news conference.

The Mexican president described her Wednesday phone call with Trump as “very good” and said the two sides reached some agreements. However, she did not disclose details about the understandings or the remaining issues under negotiation.

“Progress is being made toward a potential deal,” Sheinbaum added.

Mexico and the United States are seeking to advance bilateral trade negotiations ahead of the November 3 U.S. midterm elections. Although there is no official deadline for reaching an agreement, the upcoming vote has increased the political significance of the negotiations.

A trade accord could give both governments an opportunity to highlight progress in the economic relationship between the two neighboring countries. Trump’s Republican Party faces a congressional contest in the midterms, while Sheinbaum is also navigating domestic economic and political priorities in Mexico.

The negotiations come as North American trade tensions remain elevated. Trade talks between the United States and Canada collapsed last month, according to the report, leading Washington and Ottawa into a reciprocal tariff dispute.

Mexico is seeking favorable treatment for several industries that are particularly exposed to U.S. trade policy. Sheinbaum said her government would push Washington to lower tariffs imposed on Mexican steel, aluminum and automobiles.

Reducing those duties is expected to be a key issue as Mexico and the United States continue negotiations. The two countries have deeply integrated manufacturing and supply chains, particularly in the automotive and metals industries.

Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico would continue pursuing an agreement while protecting the country’s sovereignty and economic interests as negotiations with the Trump administration move forward.