Claudia Sheinbaum Confident in U.S. Trade Deal, Unveils Mexico’s Tech Growth Plan

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed optimism about securing a favorable trade agreement with the United States and other nations, while unveiling her administration’s ambitious plans to strengthen Mexico’s technology sector. Speaking before thousands in Mexico City’s iconic Zocalo square during her first-year anniversary celebration, Sheinbaum said she was confident in reaching “a good agreement with the United States and all nations of the world regarding our trade relations.”

Sheinbaum announced that her government will soon reveal progress in several “Made-in-Mexico” technology initiatives, including projects for electric vehicles, semiconductors, satellites, and drones. These projects are designed to help Mexico adapt to the evolving global trade environment and bolster its role in advanced manufacturing. A key component of this plan is the creation of a national artificial intelligence laboratory, signaling the country’s commitment to innovation and digital transformation.

Elected last year with approval ratings exceeding 70%, the climate scientist and former Mexico City mayor has managed a delicate balance in maintaining Mexico’s relationship with its largest trading partner, the United States. The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which shielded Mexico from many of the Trump-era tariffs, is set for review next year — a crucial moment for the nation’s trade future.

Mexico has also recently imposed tariffs on countries without trade agreements, such as China, a move widely seen as aligning with Washington’s pressure on Beijing amid the ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions.

During her speech, Sheinbaum reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to national sovereignty and playfully referenced President Trump’s decision to rename the shared gulf. “Raise your hands—who agrees that the train from Mexico City to Nuevo Laredo should be called the Gulf of Mexico Train?” she joked to a cheering crowd, declaring the motion approved.