The threat of new U.S. tariffs on Mexico and Canada is not an isolated episode. It is part of a broader geopolitical shift that challenges the model of economic integration in North America. In this context, KAS Mexico — in cooperation with the foundation’s office in Canada — hosted the event “The threat of US tariffs for Mexico and Canada – and how Europe could act now”, a space to engage in transatlantic dialogue in the face of the manifold challenges for international trade.
The current scenario is anything but simple: we see a highly integrated region, but one deeply fractured by inflation, recession, and ideological polarization. Under the banner of the “Make America Great Again” movement, extreme positions — from protectionism to xenophobia — have become normalized and do now directly influence the U.S. government’s trade and migration policy decisions.
From Mexico’s standpoint, the challenge goes beyond mitigating the effects of potential tariffs—it lies in rethinking its role in a global landscape that no longer revolves solely around the United States. With over 2,100 German companies operating in Mexico and agreements such as the EU-Mexico global agreement (its update yet to be ratified), this moment demands strengthening economic cooperation with strategic partners. As stated during the event, “if the U.S. is unwilling to join the dialogue, we remain open to building new alliances among ourselves”.
Beyond alarmist rhetoric, the event served as a call to transform threat into opportunity: to build new commercial networks, invest in regional infrastructure, and share knowledge between Mexico, Canada, and Europe. Rather than surrendering to the uncertainty dominating bilateral negotiations, participants emphasized the need to foster strong alliances, clear rules, and a shared vision of sustainable development. As one participant concluded: “Trust, once lost, is difficult to regain”.
The event featured insightful contributions from renowned experts such as Professor Jorge Schiavon (Mexico) and Professor Patrick Leblond (Canada), to whom we extend our deepest appreciation for their valuable participation in this strategic conversation.
For watching the whole webinar as video link, please click here and use the password m#*5F#EE :
