Strengthening North American Trade Through Collaboration
Mexico and the United States have fostered a robust business and foreign trade relationship built on mutual trust and cooperation. A key milestone in this partnership was the Declaration of Principles for a Bilateral Strategic Plan, signed in March 2014, aimed at boosting North American competitiveness.
On October 15, 2015, in Mexico City, the two nations took a significant step forward by formalizing this strategic plan through the signing of a Pre-Customs Clearance Memorandum. This agreement launched a joint Customs clearance pilot project, designed to streamline cross-border trade and reduce logistical bottlenecks.
Key Components of the Pilot Project
The initiative focuses on three critical areas:
- Air Cargo at Laredo Texas Airport
· Industries: Automotive, electronics, and aerospace
· Destination Airports in Mexico: Guadalajara, Toluca, Hermosillo, Chihuahua, Guanajuato, Querétaro, Ramos Arizpe, and San Luis Potosí
· Objective: Facilitate faster import/export processes for foreign trade goods
- Agricultural Exports from Mexico to the U.S.
· Location: Tijuana Customs (Mesa de Otay offices)
· Focus: Expedited clearance for Mexican agricultural products entering the U.S.
- Electronics Exports from Foxconn Facilities
· Location: San Jerónimo, Chihuahua (near the Jerónimo–Santa Teresa border crossing)
· Products: Computers and electronic devices assembled by Foxconn for export to the U.S.
Each pilot phase will run for six months, after which results will be evaluated to determine potential expansion to other industries or border points.
How the Joint Customs Clearance Process Works
· Single Inspection: Both Mexican Customs and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) conduct a unified review of documentation and physical goods.
· Efficiency Gains: Reduces processing times and lowers logistics costs for businesses.
· Technology & Training: Ensuring alignment in procedures and expertise between both nations is crucial for success.
Current Status & Next Steps
· Phase 1 (Air Cargo at Laredo): Already active
· Phase 2 (Agricultural Exports): Expected to begin in February 2016
· Phase 3 (Foxconn Electronics): Start date to be announced
This initiative represents a major leap in U.S.-Mexico trade relations, paving the way for a more efficient and competitive North American supply chain.
For further updates on this program, stay tuned to our official channels.
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