A significant Mexican trade delegation to Canada commenced on Thursday, with over 200 Mexican companies participating in efforts to enhance commercial ties during a two-day event across two cities. The mission began in Toronto and will later move to Montreal. This mission, while one of the largest sent by Mexico to Canada, is a condensed version of the original plan, which included a stop in Vancouver.
During the opening speech, Canada’s Trade Minister, Dominic LeBlanc, emphasized the strong bond between Canada and Mexico based on shared values and economic aspirations that have led to substantial prosperity in both countries over the years. The focus is on making North America the most competitive, dynamic, and resilient region globally.
Mexican Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard expressed Mexico’s desire to strengthen its relationship with Canada not only in the short term but also for the foreseeable future. The mission boasts over 240 Mexican businesses participating, with more than 1,000 business-to-business meetings already scheduled, as confirmed by Mexico’s Secretariat of Economy.
The trade mission is strategically timed as both Canada and Mexico aim to broaden their trade networks, both with each other and with other partners, reducing their reliance on the U.S. amidst trade uncertainties globally. Businesses like Bloom White Label Partners from Aguascalientes, such as Fernando Vargas, see vast collaboration opportunities between the two countries, especially given their shared time zone and upcoming joint hosting of the World Cup.
Furthermore, the engagement between the two countries extends beyond the business sector, with planned discussions on the pending review of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). Mexican officials, including Ebrard, are set to meet with key Canadian business leaders and investment firms to explore avenues for increased collaboration and investment opportunities.
The visit from Mexico follows a substantial Canadian trade mission to Mexico earlier this year, resulting in multiple new business agreements. In 2025, the bilateral merchandise trade between Canada and Mexico amounted to $62 billion, showcasing the growing economic partnership. The trade relationship has flourished since the implementation of NAFTA in 1995, with Mexican exports to Canada increasing significantly.
Luis Arzani, from Grupo Xpress Internacional, anticipates that the trade mission will facilitate direct partnerships with Canadian businesses, streamlining logistics operations and fostering trade connections without intermediary involvement from the U.S. The focus is on creating a seamless trade corridor between Mexico and Canada under a single contact point for enhanced efficiency.
Armando Ortega, a key figure in the Mexico-Canada bilateral committee, emphasizes the untapped potential in trade between the two nations and advocates for increased Mexican investment in Canada to capitalize on the evolving global economic landscape. With experience from past trade negotiations, Ortega stresses the importance of mutual collaboration and dialogue to navigate the ongoing review of CUSMA effectively.
In conclusion, the Mexican trade mission to Canada signifies a pivotal moment for both countries to deepen their economic ties and explore new avenues for growth and cooperation in a changing global landscape.
