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Mexico Surpasses China as the U.S.' Top Trading Partner: What This Means for Your Business

Updated: Sep 15, 2023

In a significant geopolitical and economic turn of events, Mexico has ousted China as the United States' top trading partner. While this might seem like just a number change on a global ranking, the implications of this shift are far-reaching and deep-rooted in various sectors, including trade, national security, and diplomacy.



The Changing Dynamics of Global Trade

In a recent piece by Luis Torres, Senior Business Economist at the Dallas Fed, it's highlighted that the metrics governing today's global trade have moved beyond just price and efficiency. In a world marred by geopolitical tensions, climate concerns, and the quest for supply chain resilience, the economic landscape is becoming ever more intricate.


Why the Shift Matters

The changing trade hierarchy isn't just a result of deteriorating U.S.-China relations, although that's certainly a factor. More importantly, it signals a gradual shift in global economic power dynamics. This alteration is affecting businesses and consumers alike, especially when it comes to costs. As U.S. trade with China diminishes, the economic burden starts to shift onto consumers and companies who have to grapple with rising costs.


Diplomacy and Beyond

The trade numbers also reflect the broader tensions between the U.S. and China on the diplomatic front. Last week, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen met with China's premier, Li Qiang, as part of an attempt to mend relations, with more visits from U.S. officials expected soon. These developments pose questions far beyond economics, affecting international relations and global power dynamics.


A Closer Look: Manufacturing and 'Nearshoring'


The Auto Industry

The auto industry stands as a significant pillar between U.S.-Mexico trade, accounting for nearly a quarter of total manufacturing activity. With a booming automotive sector, Mexico has become an essential part of the supply chain, specifically benefitting from the concept of "nearshoring."




Balanced Trade: A Symbiotic Relationship

In contrast to the trade imbalance with China, U.S.-Mexico trade is far more balanced. Products are often started in U.S. plants and completed in Mexican factories, highlighting the interdependence of the two nations. As Torres succinctly puts it, "We complement each other."


The Regulatory Landscape


Tariffs and Trade Barriers

Trade between China and the U.S. took a nosedive following restrictive tariffs imposed by the Trump administration in 2018. With an average tariff rate of around 19.3% for Chinese imports, trade has become an expensive affair for the U.S., far exceeding the 9% tariff rates for other WTO members with "most-favored-nation" status.


Free Trade Agreements

On the other hand, Mexico and the U.S. enjoy a more open trade relationship, thanks to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) of 2020, a successor to NAFTA. This agreement lowers barriers, further facilitating the robust trade relationship between the two nations.

The shift in the top trading partner from China to Mexico is not just a blip on the radar but a sign of a world in flux. This transformation has implications not only for large corporations but also for SMEs dealing in international trade. It reflects broader trends in diplomacy, global economic shifts, and even down to the operational nitty-gritty affecting day-to-day business. Understanding these changes is key to navigating the complex waters of today's global economy.

Ready to navigate the changing trade landscape? Lumex Trade is your trusted partner in financing commercial flows and working capital, specialized in the Latin American business sector.

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