WT/TPR/M/352  
31 May 2017  
(17-2900) Page: 1/60 
Trade Policy Review Body  
5 and 7 April 2017   
 
  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
MEXICO 
MINUTES  OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: Ms Irene Young (Hong Kong, China)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  2 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F MEXICO  ................................ ...... 4 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ..............  10 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMB ERS ................................ ................................ ........................  14 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF MEXICO  AND ADDITIONAL COMME NTS ..........  52 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  59 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by Mexico  are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/ 352/Add.1  and will be available online 
at http://www.wto.org/engl ish/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The sixth Trade Policy Review of Mexico  was held on 5 and 7 April 2017. The Chairperson, 
Ms. Irene Young (Hong Kong, China), welcomed the delegation of Mexico headed by Mr Juan 
Carlos Baker Pineda, Under -Secretary of Foreign Trade in the Ministry of the Economy; the 
delegation from Mexico; and the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Gustavo Vanerio  (Uruguay) .  
1.2.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of the Trade Policy Reviews and the main eleme nts of 
the procedures for the meeting. The report by Mexico was co ntained in document WT/TPR/G/352  
and that of the  WTO Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/352 . 
1.3.  Questions by the following delegations had been submitted in writing before the deadline: 
Colombia; Australi a; Hong Kong, China; Switzerland; Ukraine; Japan; Chile; India; Brazil; 
European Union; United States; El Salvador; Chinese Taipei; China; Indonesia; Norway; and the 
Dominican Republic.  The following delegations submitted written questions after the deadli ne: 
Guatemala; Republic of Korea; Ecuador; Singapore; Canada; Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; New 
Zealand; Republic of Moldova; Peru; Argentina; Turkey; Thailand; and Malaysia.   
1.4.  The Chairperson inform ed Members that Mozambique and Cambodia, which would have their  
TPRs in the coming months, had  confirmed t o the Secretariat that they had  no objection to the 
United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) 's request to attend their TPR 
meetings as an observer on an ad hoc basis. The Chairperson therefore pr opose d that the TPRB 
grant ed UNIDO observer status for the 2017 TPR meetings of Mozambique and Cambodia on an ad 
hoc basis. It was so agreed.  
1.5.  In addition, the Secretariat had been informed that at least one Member was still going 
through some domestic proc edures for endorsing the revisions to the TPRB Rules of Procedures, 
which were necessary to implement the improvements agreed at the 6th Appraisal of the TPRM. As 
such, the revisions could not yet be submitted to the TPR B for formal approval.  The Secretari at 
would closely monitor the situation and keep Members posted.  
1.6.  At its last TPR in 2013, Mexico had been congratulated for having overcome the 2009 global 
economic crisis in an efficient manner, by implementing countercyclical fiscal and monetary 
policies.  During the period under review, Mexico continued to achieve modest but stable growth, 
with its GDP expanding at an annual average rate of 2.5% , even higher than the 1.5% in the 
preceding period . There was an ambitious programme going on, comprising 11 str uctural reforms 
in different policy areas and economic sectors, and addressing precisely some of the issues raised 
by Members at the last TPR, such as how to better promote competition and foreign investment in 
general, and in the energy and telecommunicat ions sectors in particular.  
1.7.  The International Monetary Fund (IMF) thought  these reforms should help lift Mexico 's 
potent ial growth in the medium term. Would these reforms  also allow the country to rise to the 
challenges of an uncertain economic environmen t, and absorb the external risks that it was 
exposed to? Were there measures to help Mexico diversify its merchandise export market as well, 
so that it could  be less dependent on the one single market which accounted  for more than 80% of 
its total exports?  At this meeting, Members would have  the chance to discuss further these topics, 
which were the focus of  many advance written questions.  
1.8.  Mexico 's active and constructive role in the multilateral trading system was well known to all 
Members , although at the  last review as in this one, some Members would have liked  to see the 
country joining also the WTO 's plurilateral agreements, such as those on Information Technol ogy 
and Government Procurement.  Indeed, the Chair could see that quite a number of questions this 
time were asked about Mexico 's government procurement procedures, including the preference 
rules and local content requirements.  
1.9.  Outside of the WTO, Mexico was participating in an increasing number of preferential trade 
agreements. Members understood from its Government r eport that optimiz ing existing agreements 
and negotiating new ones were two key elem ents of Mexico 's trade policy. As Members asked 
about some of these agreements, it might  be useful if the delegation could give Members  an 
update.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  1.10.   Zoom ing in on domestic trade policies, Members saw  Mexico carrying on with its good work 
in simplifying customs procedures, establishing the Digital Window and ma king customs brokers 
optional. In their questions, Members sought  more information on other aspect s of customs 
procedures, such as the authorised economic operators programme , customs processing fees and 
valuation methods, and they hoped to see improvements there as well.  
1.11.   At the last TPR, Members had also encouraged Mexico  to simplify its SPS measures.  During 
the latest review period, a National Advisory Committee in charge of the Mexican Official Agri -food 
Standards was set up and other committees dealing with SPS issues were reorganized in order to 
make the reg ulatory process es more effective.  How thi s development could  facilitate imports, and 
whether there was scope for Mexico to adopt more international recommendations and standards, 
not only for SPS, but also for technical regulations, were questions that many Members had  in 
mind.  
1.12.   Anti-dumping measu res attracted greater attention this time, probably because  the number 
of measures in force had seen  a drastic increase of almost 70% compared to the previous review 
period. Apparently , Members were concerned about this, as well as the large number of new 
investigation s initiated, and the fact that the grea t majority of sunset reviews had  led to renewal 
of the duties.  
1.13.   On the other hand, Members  saw very positive development in the tariff regime, where the 
applied tariffs had been  significantly reduced, in p articular for agricultural products.  This was no 
doubt a welcome move, but as Members had noted in the previous review, tariff protection on 
agricultural products was still higher than that afforded to manufactured products, and Members 
continue d to questi on the efficiency and the need for the large number of Mexico 's sup port 
programmes in agriculture.  
1.14.   Members raised questions about other subjects, such as protection of intellectual property 
rights, import  licensing and export support. This meeting would be  a good opportunity for 
Members to discuss in greater detail all these issues of interest to them and of importance to the 
multil ateral trading system.   WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE O F MEXICO (MR JUAN CARL OS BAKER 
PINEDA ) 
2.1.  I am very honoured to be participating in the sixth Trade Policy Review of Mexico.  
2.2.  I would like to thank:  
 Ms Irene Young , for chairing this meeting and sharing her initial thoughts;  
 Ambassador Gustavo Vanerio , Permanent Representative of Uruguay, who is giving us 
the great hono ur of being our discussant here today;  
 The rest of the Membership , for its interest in my country's trade policies, which is 
reflected in the more than 500 questions we have received and answered; and  
 The WTO Secretariat , for its comprehensive and excellen t report.  
Mexico has invested in its stability  
 
2.3.  The international context of the period covered by this sixth Trade Policy Review of Mexico 
was undoubtedly characterized by a slowdown in world economic growth, uncertainty, and the 
questioning of free trade  and multilateralism – aspects that can lead to an increase in protectionist 
policies.  
2.4.  In this light, I would like to make it clear that Mexico has invested in its stability and is well 
positioned to withstand the shocks suffered by the international econo my. 
2.5.  The period referred to in this report covers almost the entire term of office of President 
Enrique Peña Nieto, which began in 2012, and has been characterized by major structural reform, 
macroeconomic stability, legal certainty, trade openness, and glo bal responsibility.  
2.6.  In the last four years, Mexico has, despite the volatile economic climate, boosted its 
competitiveness and remained not only an attractive and reliable destination for investment, but a 
global production and export platform. There are t wo main reasons for this:  
 Firstly, at the internal level, and with a view to ensuring our long -term economic growth 
prospects, we have strengthened our domestic market and enhanced our competitiveness 
through macroeconomic stability, structural reforms, an d the continual improvement of the 
business environment.  
 Secondly, at the external level, we remain firmly committed to free trade and 
multilateralism, while seeking greater openness with a view to diversifying our exports to 
dynamic and growing markets . 
Improving Mexico's competitive advantage  
2.7.  In order to improve the country's competitive advantage, our priorities have been to achieve 
the political consensus necessary to prepare Mexico to face competition in the 21st century, and to 
generate a platform of sustained and inclusive growth, so as to meet the needs of the 
Mexican  population.  
1. Macroeconomic stability  
2.8.  In a context of prolonged moderate global economic growth, financial market volatility and 
geopolitical uncertainty, Mexico's stability and sustained  growth rest on three pillars: a prudent 
fiscal policy, an independent monetary policy, and an extensive and in -depth agenda of structural 
reform.  
2.9.  In these four years, we have achieved the following:  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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   Sound finances, through budgetary measures implemented t o keep the public debt, as a 
percentage of GDP, on a downward trajectory.  
 Improved fiscal health thanks to higher tax revenue, which has made it possible to reduce 
reliance on oil revenues, which between 2012 and 2016 alone fell from 39.4% to only 16.3% 
of total public revenue.  
 Accumulated international reserves amounting to almost US$175  billion by 31  March  2017, a 
figure equivalent to five months' worth of Mexican exports.  
 During the period covered by this review, and thanks to the implementation of measu res 
consolidating inflationary convergence at levels of 3%, Mexico recorded its lowest inflation 
rates in modern history.  
 The unemployment rate has continued to fall and now stands at 3.4%, the lowest level in 
the last ten years; 2.6  million jobs have also  been created, which is the highest level ever 
recorded in  Mexico.  
2. Structural reforms  
2.10.   In 2013, Mexico achieved political consensus to approve a package of 13 structural reforms 
designed to broaden the population's social rights, consolidate our institution al framework, and 
increase the productivity and competitiveness of our economy.  
2.11.   Thanks to this package of reforms, the Organisation for Economic Co -operation and 
Development ( OCDE) recognized Mexico as the foremost reformer in recent years among the 
34 OECD member economies.  
2.12.   These reforms focus on dynamic sectors of the economy, such as those pertaining to credit, 
energy and telecommunications, which provide inputs to all other sectors. The reforms are 
accompanied by cross -cutting actions that foster competition in the markets, and a Government 
that promotes and invests in productivity, within a fiscal framework that provides certainty . 
2.13.   Other supplementary reforms seek to broaden  people's rights, but also have a direct impact 
on the economy by seeking to generate the human capital that is needed in the 21st century . 
2.14.   The reforms and the results thereof are the following:  
2.15.   The tax reform  gives the regime a progressive aspect. Under t he reformed regime, those 
who are able to do so will make higher tax payments, and there will be greater capacity to 
generate benefits, particularly for those who have the least. The tax reform guarantees that 
resources will be used efficiently, effectivel y and in a fully transparent manner at all times.  
2.16.   Following this reform, even though oil revenues decreased, tax revenue rose from 8.4% to 
14.0% of the GDP.  
2.17.   Between December  2012 and December  2016, there was also a marked increase in 
formality, with the re gistration of 18.3  million new taxpayers.  
2.18.   Meanwhile, the aim of the financial reform  is to make credit more accessible, in particular 
to MSMEs. The reform therefore promotes competition in the sector, with a view to driving down 
costs and increasing the cr edit supply.  
2.19.   The expansion of access to credit has significantly contributed to strengthening our domestic 
market. Between December  2013 and December  2016, commercial bank loans increased by 
37.3% for companies, 50.6% for microenterprises, 34.1% for person al loans, and 23.6% for the 
mortgage market.  
2.20.   Regarding domestic finance to the private sector and domestic savings, the former 
increased from 25.7% to 31.9% of the GDP between 2012 and 2016, while the latter rose from 
55.8% to 62.2% of the GDP.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  2.21.   The telecom munications reform  promotes competition and facilitates access to various 
higher -quality products and services, at more affordable prices.  
2.22.   Between June  2013 and February  2017, mobile phone tariffs fell by 41% and international 
long-distance tariffs by 43%,  while fixed -line rates fell by 4.9%.  
2.23.   The arrival on the market of new competitors generating investments of more than 
US$8  billion, has undoubtedly helped to reduce these tariffs. The investments will join those 
relating to the shared network ( Red Compart ida) project, which we estimate will generate 
investment amounting to an additional US$7  billion and which will enable us to provide high -speed 
mobile telephone services to 92.2% of the population – around 110  million people – by 
January  2024.  
2.24.   The competit ion policy reform  promotes free competition and seeks to prevent and 
combat monopolies, monopolistic practices, cartels and other restrictions on the efficient 
functioning of markets.  
2.25.   Through this reform, the body responsible for regulating competition in Mexico was granted 
autonomy and was authorized to penalize companies that engage in anti -competitive practices.  
2.26.   The energy reform  permits private domestic and foreign investment participation in 
exploration and production activities in the hydrocarbon and electricity subsectors, which were 
previously restricted to State participation, thereby incentivizing competitive, flexible contracts 
based on international practices, which provide greater certainty to investors.  
2.27.   All of this will result in the greater av ailability of oil and natural gas and their derivatives, 
and a better, more affordable public electricity service with greater coverage.  
2.28.   With regard to hydrocarbons, there were four calls for tenders in Round One, generating 
total investment of more than U S$52 billion. In Round Two, we expect investment of 
approximately US$11  billion.  
2.29.   As regards electricity, auctions have been held with a view to private investors setting up 
clean-energy projects. The prices at these auctions hit international record lows. Investments 
amounting to more than US$6  billion have also been made.  
2.30.   Lastly, the above reforms are supplemented by the labour and education reforms, which 
seek to generate more productive human capital.  
2.31.   The labour reform  has helped to create a more flexibl e market, with new methods of 
recruitment such as initial training and trials, which facilitate the incorporation of young people 
and women into formal and productive activity.  
2.32.   The education reform has been one of the most important social transformation p rojects 
in the country in recent decades and focuses on ensuring the quality of education services so as to 
facilitate the incorporation of Mexicans into an increasingly competitive labour market.  
2.33.   It should be noted that, under the education reform, three out of ten students in public 
schools receive a scholarship and more than 33,000 schools have benefited from investment in 
infrastructure ("Escuelas al CIEN" programme).  
2.34.   As you can see, this package of structural reforms has initiated, and will contribute to, a 
new phase of sustained and inclusive growth aimed specifically at promoting the productivity and 
competitiveness of our economy. This is clear from the fact that between 2014 and 2016, Mexico 
rose ten places in the World Economic Forum's Global Compe titiveness Index and five places in the 
World Bank's Doing Business report.  
3. A better business environment/trade facilitation, innovation and regulatory improvement  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  2.35.   As part of Mexico's efforts to ensure greater competitiveness in a bid to attract and retain  
investment in the country, we should also highlight the country's domestic policies that seek to 
improve the business environment and facilitate trade operations for companies.  
2.36.   We have implemented an industrial promotion and innovation policy that include s the design 
and development of sectoral and regional agendas, the development of innovative human capital, 
and the promotion of strategic high value -added sectors.  
2.37.   We have also taken the following steps in the area of regulatory improvement:  
 The cost of f ederal formalities, which amounted to 4.5% of GDP in December  2012, was 
reduced to only 2.7% of GDP in February  2017.  
 Two rules have been eliminated for each new rule introduced.  
 The customs tariff has been updated by removing obsolete or low -trade tariff items.  
 Steps have been taken to facilitate enterprise creation and to promote entrepreneurship 
under the Simplified Joint -Stock Company ( Sociedad por Acciones Simplificada ) initiative, 
which makes it possible to create a company in 24 hours, on the Interne t, at no cost to 
business persons.  
Increasing trade diversification  
2.38.   The second element enabling Mexico to avoid global market volatility is its unwavering 
commitment to market openness and to the multilateral trading system that brings us together 
today.  
2.39.   Thirty years ago, when Mexico decided to change its growth paradigm by joining the GATT, 
we decided to use trade as an alternative route to growth and have now successfully integrated 
ourselves into the international trade arena.  
2.40.   Mexico has a network of 12 free trade agreements that provide preferential access to the 
markets of 46 countries. These markets represent 1,161,000,000 potential consumers, 58% of 
world GDP and 54% of world trade.  
2.41.   We have worked to expand this extensive network of agreements, which covers almost the 
whole world, and have participated in two pioneering regional platforms: the Pacific Alliance and 
the Trans -Pacific Partnership Agreement.  
2.42.   The results are clear to see. Between 2011 and 2015, Mexico's trade expanded in a dynamic 
manner, i ts value amounting to US$776  billion in this period. Goods exports increased by 9%, 
while imports rose by 12%.  
2.43.   Over the next two years, we will focus on maintaining an active trade integration agenda, 
updating our existing agreements and enhancing our rela tions with other regions in the world 
where we do not have a very marked presence.  
2.44.   Mexico will continue to integrate into global value chains through the optimization, 
negotiation, convergence, and administration of a large number of trade and investment 
agreements.  
Key changes in trade policy  
2.45.   During the period covered by this review, Mexico made a number of changes to its trade 
policy, most notably amendments to the Customs Law. Changes made to increase the efficiency of 
customs procedures include the foll owing:  
 the optional use of customs broker services. Importers can now carry out customs clearance 
formalities directly;  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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   the second customs inspection has been abolished and the use of non -intrusive technology 
to streamline the clearance of goods has been e nhanced; and  
 the creation of the Digital Window, which covers the procedures of nine federal departments 
and two regulatory bodies, thereby simplifying, standardizing and automating foreign trade 
procedures.  
2.46.   These changes have enabled us to accept, under C ategory A, all the measures and 
provisions of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, thereby committing ourselves to their full 
implementation upon the entry into force of the Agreement.  
2.47.   Regarding tariff policy, Mexico's average applied tariff fell from 6.2% to  only 5.6% in this 
period, with the agricultural sector showing the greatest reduction, its average dropping from 
20.9% in 2012 to only 14.8% in 2016.  
2.48.   In relation to sanitary and phytosanitary measures, 2012 saw the creation of the National 
Advisory Commit tee on Agrifood Standardization. This body helps to reduce the amount of time 
spent preparing, discussing and issuing Mexican Official Standards relating to agrifoods by 
strengthening the sector's regulatory framework and providing greater certainty in the  
establishment of rules governing the sector, all of which benefits Mexican consumers and industrial 
competitiveness and effectively addresses the sanitary, quality and safety needs of the national 
and international market.  
2.49.   In the field of intellectual pro perty, the following instruments entered into force: the 
Protocol Relating to the Madrid Agreement Concerning the International Registration of Marks, and 
the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Published Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually 
Impaired, or Otherwise Print Disabled. A new trademark opposition system has also entered into 
effect under the Industrial Property Law, while the Amendment to the TRIPS Agreement entered 
into force at the WTO.  
Foreign investment policy  
2.50.   Lastly, as a result of the various structural reforms I have just mentioned, Mexico has 
significantly transformed its investment regime in respect of previously restricted sectors of 
economic importance. Up to 100% foreign participation is now permitted in activities such as:  
 the marketing of gasoline (petrol) and the distribution of liquefied petroleum gas;  
 the construction of pipelines for petroleum and petroleum products;  
 the drilling of petroleum and gas wells;  
 telecommunications and satellite communications; and  
 investment i n insurance institutions, bonding institutions, credit information companies, and 
insurance agents.  
2.51.   This openness to foreign investment enabled Mexico to attract almost US$135  billion in 
foreign investment between 2013 and 2016.  
Conclusion  
2.52.   Mexico firmly be lieves that the aforementioned measures have put us on the right path to 
making our economy more competitive and international trade a catalyst for inclusive development 
in Mexico.  
2.53.   We know that we still face many challenges, yet we remain committed to the multilateral 
trading system.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  2.54.   Unlike others, Mexico is resisting the temptation to implement inward -looking policies 
anchored in protectionism that only generate uncertainty and volatility, and reaffirms its 
commitment to open markets.  
2.55.   We are convinced that  by making this an internal task, creating better conditions for 
competing, and providing impetus, we can address the challenges that arise at global level, while 
still helping to preserve the multilateral trading system.  
2.56.   In Mexico, no one questions or dou bts the benefits of trade, but we do categorically reject 
threats and actions that undermine our achievements. Mexico looks to the future, not the past. We 
are sure that the WTO Membership shares this vision.  
2.57.   With the support of a solid, functional and rul es-based multilateral trading system, we will 
be able to respond to our people's demands.  
2.58.   The success of the Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires is therefore fundamental. Over the 
coming weeks, we urge all Members to work on the flexibilities needed to achieve this. I reiterate 
Mexico's efforts and willingness in this regard.  
2.59.   I would like to conclude by thanking you for your interest and participation in this sixth 
Trade Policy Review of Mexico, which has undoubtedly taken place at an interesting time fo r both 
the system and my country. I hope that the messages I have conveyed, the willingness of our 
representation, and all our hard work will contribute to the system's well -being. Thank you very 
much.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  
3.1.  I would like to thank you  for this opportunity to participate as a discussant in this important 
forum. I greatly appreciate this honour and display of trust.  
3.2.  Mexico is an extraordinary country with great character and a rich cultural heritage.  
3.3.  It is one of the world's leading econ omies and plays a major role in international trade. 
Furthermore, Mexico is extremely active in the WTO's multilateral forum and has developed an 
active policy on free trade agreements.  
3.4.  Mexico has tremendous strengths, but it also needs to address serious challenges and will 
have to confront its weaknesses. Preventing some of these strengths from becoming weaknesses 
is a further challenge.  
3.5.  The period under review has been particularly productive, especially with the structural 
reforms undertaken by Mexico a nd the efforts made to take them forward, including through 
amendments to the Constitution.  
Mexico's strengths  
3.6.  Macroeconomic policy and environment. As stated in the Secretariat report and the 
Government report, Mexico has demonstrated sound macroeconomic management. It has 
recorded accelerated growth, GDP per capita has improved, prices have become stable, and 
inflation has been kept under control at around 2.5%. This can be taken as indicative of or as 
evidence of Mexico's responsible management of public  finances, despite the increase in the public 
sector deficit, which remains manageable. We all know that stability and responsible 
macroeconomic management are prerequisites for development, and this is one of Mexico's major 
strengths, particularly in ligh t of the negative international environment during the period under 
review.  
3.7.  Structural reforms. Following the 2012 Pact for Mexico, in 2013, Mexico initiated a process of 
structural reforms in several strategic sectors. I would call this a medium - to long -term strategic 
project.  
3.8.  These reforms were carried out in the sectors of energy, economic competition, 
telecommunications and broadcasting, taxation and tax policy, and finance, as well as in other 
important areas such as labour, education, electoral polit ics and transparency. In some cases, this 
required constitutional reforms and consequently, an enormous effort by the political system and 
society as a whole.  
3.9.  These reforms are key to understanding the path taken by Mexico.  
3.10.   I would like to briefly highligh t some aspects of the reforms. The energy reform was based 
on the opening up to the rest of world of areas such as fuel and electricity. The tax reform 
programme included a review of taxation, which led to growth in government revenue, while 
government fin ances became significantly less dependent on oil revenue. These are remarkable 
results. The tax base was expanded, which resulted in increased tax revenue. This improvement 
helped reduce the dependence of government finances on oil revenue by two thirds. I n 2012, oil 
revenue accounted for 39.5% of all public sector revenue: at end -2015 it accounted for 19.8%, 
and in the first half of 2016, 13.5%.  
3.11.   Another noteworthy point is that the list of taxpayers grew by 11.6  million.  
3.12.   This reform process is one of Mexic o's strengths and must be continued and be sustainable 
over time. Although it may be adjusted, it requires persistence and determination.  
3.13.   Trade negotiations and foreign investment. Another of Mexico's strengths lies in its 
development of a very active trad e policy in terms of trade agreements. It has been able to 
negotiate many trade agreements, which should create opportunities, channel exports towards 
new markets, and encourage foreign investment flows to Mexico.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  3.14.   Mexico boasts a significant foreign direct  investment flow to manufacturing industries, which 
accounts for US$32  billion per year. Mexico has been very successful in the automotive industry. 
Today, it is the main exporter of vehicles in Latin America and is the fourth exporter of motor 
vehicles in  the world. This is a remarkable achievement.  
Weaknesses  
3.15.   Concentration in trade with the United States. For geographical reasons, Mexico has a 
natural partnership with the United States. This is also the case for Uruguay, which has a natural 
partnership wi th its major neighbours. Sometimes, the problem is caused by asymmetry in the 
partnership, and other times, it arises from the different visions that both partners may have, 
which makes it difficult to maintain a shared project. In any case, this has an im pact on trade 
policy and integration, and the country must be able to adapt if changes are made to its partners' 
policies within the framework of existing agreements.  
3.16.   The high concentration of Mexican exports to the United States, which accounted for 81.2%  
of total exports in 2015, is no small challenge. And the latest data show an increase in sales to the 
United States. Furthermore, production lines have been integrated at continental level. For the 
United States, Mexico is also an essential partner. Mexic o is the main purchaser of corn (maize) 
from the United States, with imports amounting to US$2.3  billion last year, and accounting for 
around 25% of US production. It also purchases around 8% of American pigmeat. Mexico is the 
third export market for agric ultural products from the United States, including soya, wheat, milk 
and rice.  
3.17.   Mexico maintains a significant bilateral trade surplus with the United States, which amounts 
to hundreds of  billions of US dollars per year. This has been the case since 2001, a nd the surplus 
has further increased since 2013. It should also be noted that the United States has a deficit in its 
trade balance and with several of its partners for some time. From a trade policy point of view, 
such statistics are a sign of success. Yet , it is important to bear in mind the perceptions and 
understanding of the situation. Market dogmas are always present. The services account and 
balance of services between both countries should not be overlooked in this regard, as they could 
reveal somewh at different figures. The statistics on trade in services in Mexico therefore need to 
be improved.  
3.18.   Let us turn back to Mexico's trade strengths. There were variations in the composition of 
Mexico's exports, with oil accounting for 15.5% of total exports in  2012, while it fell to 7.2% in 
2015. This can be explained partly by the drop in oil prices. In any case, manufactured goods are 
dominant in Mexican exports, accounting for 85% of total exports. There is a continental value 
chain, Mexico exports manufactu red goods, and foreign direct investment in Mexico is part of the 
value chain. In fact, there is a connection between manufactured goods, which account for the 
majority of Mexican exports, and integration into the continental value chain and foreign direct  
investment. The main manufactured goods are vehicles and electronic equipment.  
3.19.   The maquila industry continues to play an important role for Mexico, and has recorded 
positive figures. The Manufacturing, Maquila and Export Services Industry (IMMEX) programm e 
provides for the temporary importation of goods which are required for use in an industrial or 
services process, and which are then exported.  
3.20.   Trade policy. Mexico is not part of the Information Technology Agreement (ITA). It has 
preferred not to particip ate in sectoral agreements in the WTO, including government 
procurement. This is a matter that should perhaps be examined closely.  
3.21.   Foreign direct investment in Mexico. Some restrictions remain in place for activities reserved 
for the Mexican State, and act ivities reserved exclusively for Mexicans with an exclusion of 
foreigners clause. The number of reserved activities was reduced through the reforms 
implemented during the period under review. The Foreign Investment Law was amended, which 
had an impact on t he energy sector. The establishment of a Mexican Oil Fund for Stabilization and 
Development (FMP) is very interesting. I think that it is an advanced and modern mechanism.  
3.22.   Foreign trade regime. Mexico has also made considerable efforts to facilitate and si mplify 
customs procedures. The main reforms include the introduction of a single digital window and the WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  abolition of the requirement to use the services of a customs broker. The use of new technologies 
for inspecting goods has been boosted. Mexico also sig ned the Agreement on Trade Facilitation in 
July last year.  
3.23.   Mexico has maintained several measures, such as tariff peaks, compound tariffs on imports 
and non -automatic import licensing. There are 3,499 tariff lines with non -automatic licensing. 
During the p eriod under review, tariffs were substantially lowered, as indicated in paragraph 3.19 
of the Secretariat report. While I recognize this downward trend, tariffs for meat decreased from 
234% to 100%, and tariffs for fresh cheese and beans declined from 125%  to 45%. This does not 
seem to have an impact on actual trade, yet the trend should be maintained in order to facilitate 
trade.  
3.24.   As regards trade defence, Mexico uses an anti -dumping mechanism. There are 93 measures 
in place, and an increase in the number o f measures has been observed, although this applies 
mainly to steel.  
3.25.   Competition policy. Significant changes have been recorded, including through the 
introduction of constitutional amendments, which had an impact on areas such as broadcasting.  
3.26.   Concerning trade in services, Mexico's balance of services is in deficit, particularly with 
regard to transport and insurance, with the exception of travel, in other words, tourism. The 
positive trend in financial services, resulting from the reform of the sector in 2014, is of particular 
note. The investments by foreign enterprises in services sectors, such as distribution chains, are 
also of great importance under mode 3.  
3.27.   Agriculture. In Mexico, programmes are in place to support agriculture. More information is 
required on the impact of programmes such as that of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural 
Development, Fisheries and Food (SAGARPA) and the Agriculture Promotion Programme 
(PROAGRO), which focus on direct payments to producers. Electricity and diesel  subsidies are also 
granted to small farmers.  
3.28.   Special Economic Zones (SEZs). Although the Secretariat does not refer to this instrument 
in its report, as it is only recent, these zones have also been established in Mexico, with the 
introduction of tax exem ptions, income tax, credits for employers' contributions, and even 
VAT exemption.  
3.29.   Taxes for non -tax goals. It is very interesting that the tax reform combined the use of new 
tax bases with the achievement of non -tax goals. The reform included new environme ntal and 
health taxes. A tax was introduced on fossil fuel consumption in line with the carbon content of the 
fuel. On health, a 1 peso/L tax was placed on flavoured drinks that contain calorific sweeteners 
and an 8% tax on calorie -dense foods. Taxation fo r health purposes has succeeded in changing 
consumption patterns and redirecting them towards healthy products.  
3.30.   Electronic commerce. The telecommunications and broadcasting reform establishes a 
universal digital inclusion policy and a national digital stra tegy. The aim is for at least 50% of 
homes and 65% of the population to have high -speed internet. It also involves a drive to expand 
and strengthen the fibre -optic backbone network, which is both crucial and critical for the 
development of electronic comme rce in Mexico. Moving away from the digital economy, I would 
now like to make several final remarks.  
Final observations  
3.31.   In the climate of disruption that we are currently experiencing, which is predicted to revive 
global economic growth, Mexico has opportu nities. The question is whether Mexico is prepared to 
be a global player. If the structural reforms are successful, they should allow Mexico to showcase 
itself in this regard. I would like to add that Mexico has a responsibility within the multilateral 
system and the WTO.  
3.32.   Mexico is clearly capable of basing its actions on the principles of flexibility, adaptability and 
hard bargaining when engaging with its main partners, and sustaining its current trade policy and 
the reforms introduced.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  3.33.   I think that it is  very important for both the Government and the private sector to focus 
more on the south of Mexico, and on the Latin American Integration Association (LAIA). We have 
an opportunity to contribute to integration in the region.  
3.34.   It is paramount to continue th e development efforts in the area of services, which is so 
diverse and vital for competition and employment in Mexico. There seems to be a great need to 
improve the statistics on goods in services in Mexico.  
3.35.   With these final observations, I wish to express  my appreciation for the opportunity to 
deliver this statement. Thank you.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 
COLOMBIA  
4.1.  Mexico has consolidated its position as a strategic regional partner for Colombia, which was 
reinforced through the Framework Agreement of the Pacifi c Alliance. Together with Chile and Peru, 
it has promoted a sound regional integration model, with a view to boosting growth and economic 
development, and to supplementing our economies. Mexico, which is viewed as one of the 
ten largest economies in the wo rld, is the tenth destination for Colombian exports and the 
third largest source of Colombian imports, and is also a key source of foreign direct investment for 
the country.  
4.2.  As highlighted in its sixth trade policy review, Mexico's economy has demonstrated  an 
outstanding performance, as can be observed from its stable and sustained growth, trade 
liberalization, structural economic reforms and manufacturing output.  
4.3.  We note that, in a regional context characterized by moderate growth, Mexico's GDP grew at 
an annual average rate of 2.5%, inflation remained low and under control at a rate of between 2% 
and 4%, and the unemployment rate fell to 4%. The recovery of demand in the United States, 
exports of manufactured goods, and growing private consumption, have co ntributed to mitigating 
the effects of the weak growth of world trade.  
4.4.  In particular, exports of manufactured goods, which account for 85% of total exports, rose 
5% on average, and have fostered the growth of total exports. The Mexican manufacturing sector  
is highly diverse and is value -added. It has ensured Mexico's position as the world's leading 
exporter of vehicles and tractors, and the second largest exporter of televisions, among other 
goods.  
4.5.  Furthermore, the financial account recorded large surpluses , thus enabling reserves to be 
accumulated. This was mainly to increased flows of foreign direct investment, which, including in 
2013, reached a record total of over US$68  billion.  
4.6.  The following aspects of the development of Mexico's trade policy, which ar e indicated in the 
National Development Plan for 2013 -2018, are of particular note: (i) the high number of 
preferential trade arrangements; (ii) the commitment to its multilateral obligations; (iii) the 
unilateral reduction of its applied tariffs to an ave rage of 5.5% and the lowering of tariff peaks; 
and (iv) the continuation of trade facilitation measures, through the adoption of a digital window 
for foreign trade, the automation of processes, the streamlining of clearance and inspection, and 
the implemen tation of the Authorized Economic Operator.  
4.7.  Mexico has also introduced a package of tax reforms, as well as reforms in the energy, 
financial and telecommunications sectors, which have resulted in an opening up to private 
investment and increased tax revenu e, while government finances have become less dependent on 
oil revenue.  
4.8.  The efforts made by Mexico in recent years are reflected in the results that it has obtained, 
and its higher position in the World Economic Forum Global Competitiveness Report and the World 
Bank Doing Business 2017 report, in which it was ranked as the largest Latin American economy.  
4.9.  As evidenced by the Secretariat report, and as was the case four years ago in this review, 
Mexico is recommended to continue its efforts to diversify its t rade relations, given the 
concentration of its exports and imports with its main trading partner, the United States, which 
represent 81% and 47% respectively, and the fact that the Unites States is its main source of 
foreign direct investment, accounting f or 41% of the total.  
4.10.   The report also highlights the importance for the Mexican Government to continue its efforts 
to reduce poverty, lower the level of informality, increase the efficiency of the State, and 
consolidate security.  
4.11.   Today is an important momen t for the Mexican economy, which has shown the world how it 
is possible to enhance economic growth, development and production diversification, as part of its WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  commitment to multilateralism and through a model that is open to trade. We hope that, as it 
continues to implement the reforms that it has undertaken, Mexico consolidates its position as a 
major economic stakeholder at global level and a driver of regional growth.  
4.12.   We thank Mexico for its replies to the questions that we submitted in the context of th is 
review, and wish its delegation, in particular Ambassador Zapata and his team in Geneva, every 
success with the sixth trade policy review.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.13.   Australia values our close and productive relationship with Mexico in the WTO as well as the 
G20, OECD, APEC, MIKTA, TiSA , TPP and the Pacific Alliance.  
4.14.   Mexico is Australia 's largest trading partner in Latin America. Two -way merchandise trade 
was valued at more than $3 billion in 2015 -2016. Australian investment in Mexico is growing 
rapidly, increasing from  $200 million at the start of decade to almost $6 billion today. There are 
many opportunities to further increase economic engagement in sectors such as advanced 
manufacturing, resources, infrastructure, agribusiness and education.  
4.15.   We commend Mexico for it s ambitious economic reforms, including its extensive energy 
sector reforms. These reforms have allowed international companies into Mexico 's resources sector 
for the first time since 1938, creating new opportunities for Australian businesses. For example,  
BHP Billiton 's joint venture with PEMEX to explore the deep -water Trion oilfield in the Gulf of 
Mexico.  
4.16.   Australian businesses are utilising Mexico 's National Infrastructure Plan. For example, the 
Macquarie Group is now the second largest owner of industri al real estate in Mexico and has over 
$3 billion in assets under management.  
4.17.   It is clear that Mexico has  a commitment to trade liberaliz ation and has made concrete 
efforts to open its economy and increase competitiveness.  
4.18.   We note that Mexico 's import and export markets remain highly concentrated; however, its 
efforts to diversify are welcome.   
4.19.   Mexico 's reduction in applied tariffs during the review period, particularly tariff reductions in 
the agricultural sector, has  created opportunities for foreign bus inesses to enter its market. We 
acknowledge efforts to date and encourage Mexico to continue to reduce tariffs on agricultural 
goods.   
4.20.   Mexico, like Australia, is a vocal advocate for free trade. We commend Mexico 's commitment 
to the multilateral trading s ystem and its high level of partic ipation across the WTO agenda. We 
look forward to continuing to work with Mexico t o advance global trade liberaliz ation, including in 
the lead up to MC11.  
4.21.   Australia asked Mexico a number of written questions. We thank Mexi co for their replies, 
and look forward to reviewing them carefully.  
SWITZERLAND  
4.22.   For several years, Mexico, which has become the eleventh largest economy in the world, has 
had an open trade policy, which has transformed the country into an efficient economy . 
4.23.   Mexico's commitment to defending and developing the multilateral system is exemplary. 
Everyone here can confirm the active participation of the Mexican delegation in the work of the 
WTO committees and bodies, since the creation of the Organization. For e xample, Mexico recently 
helped to take forward the discussions on trade cooperation, by sponsoring a workshop on the 
relationship between trade and investment with the other MIKTA countries.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.24.   However, as a result of its openness, Mexico must face new challe nges arising from the 
volatility of the external economic climate, the sluggishness of world trade and the redeployment 
of added -value chains.  
4.25.   The country seems well -equipped to address these challenges. In 2013, Mexico undertook 
structural reforms in a nu mber of sectors. These reforms have made its economy more resilient 
and more competitive in strategic areas, such as energy and finance. Furthermore, domestic 
demand remains stable and high, which is enabling the country to better weather the turbulence 
currently experienced by world trade.  
4.26.   However, according to certain international economic institutions, the reforms undertaken 
by Mexico have not reached their full potential. The diversification of the Mexican economy 
remains a major challenge to be addres sed. 
4.27.   Mexico remains heavily dependent on its major northern neighbour. It has already taken 
steps towards trade diversification through the conclusion of 12 regional agreements with 
46 countries. This is an opportune strategy that will bear fruit.  
4.28.   In this regard, the WTO multilateral agreements would provide a new opportunity for 
diversification. With this in mind, we strongly encourage Mexico to sign the multilateral 
agreements that have been concluded or are under negotiation in the WTO, particularly the 
original Information Technology Agreement (ITA) and the expanded version, the Agreement on 
Government Procurement, and the Environmental Goods Agreement.  
4.29.   Switzerland has also contributed to Mexico's trade diversification, albeit to a more modest 
extent, th rough the free trade agreement concluded 17 years ago between Mexico and the 
European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries. Since then, our bilateral economic relations 
have become closer, and a modernization of the agreement is under negotiation.  
4.30.   Curre ntly, Mexico is Switzerland's second trading partner in Latin America: Swiss exports to 
Mexico mainly comprise pharmaceutical products, electronic devices and precision tools, watches 
and jewellery, while Mexican exports to Switzerland consist primarily of  precious metals, 
pharmaceutical products, machinery and electronic goods.  
4.31.   Switzerland is the eighth largest direct investor in Mexico. In this regard, it should be noted 
that, although Mexico has become a major destination for foreign direct investment, f urther efforts 
to reduce the number of barriers to investment would contribute to the diversification of the 
country's economy.  
4.32.   We wish to thank Mexico for the detailed replies to our written questions. We have already 
been able to clarify several points. Other elements will require a more comprehensive analysis 
from our capital.  
4.33.   Before concluding, I would like to underscore the efforts made by Mexico to reduce or even 
eliminate fossil fuel subsidies. We understand the difficulty of this task. The protests following the 
rise in petrol prices at the beginning of the year remind us of the sensitive nature of the issue. We 
congratulate the Government for its determination and perseverance.  
4.34.   I would like to end by thanking Mexico once again for its continued and positive 
commitment to the WTO. We hope that many constructive lessons will be given today. Lastly, we 
wish Mexico every success in its review.  
UKRAINE  
4.35.   The economy of Mexico is the 13th largest in the world in nominal terms and the 11th 
largest by purchasi ng power parity. Mexico is one of the emerging countries most open to foreign 
direct investment.  
4.36.   Bilaterally, Mexico is Ukraine 's 4th trade partner (goods) among the Americas and 59th trade 
partner among the world trade partners. In 2016 (11 months), the c ommodity turnover of goods 
between our countries amounted to US$227 million (increased by 38% compared to previous WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  period). Exports of goods US$134.7 million (increased by 2 5%) and import of goods 
US$92.4  million (increased by 63%). Ukraine exports to Mexi co the following commodities: ferrous 
metals, grain crops, fertilizers, parts of rolling stock, groats. The main articles of Ukraine 's import 
from Mexico are: vehicles, equipment, drinks, pharmaceuticals, rocks, optical devices, fruits 
(bananas).  
4.37.   The volum e of Mexican investments in Ukraine is about US$9 million (for reference, the 
company "Gruma " is only one Mexican investor in Ukraine, has invested in 2010 these funds to 
create company producing corn flour "Azteca Altera Milling " in Cherkasy).  
4.38.   Ukraine att aches great importance to investment and economic cooperation between our 
countries and its further development. Key areas of further bilateral cooperation may include: 
energy sector, in particular the construction of power generating facilities and supply  power 
equipment; realization of projects in the petroleum industry in Mexico; repair and maintenance of 
aviation equipment; projects in the space industry; export of agricultural and food products (i.e. 
packed sunflower oil and seeds, corn 's seeds and con fectionery) and domestic machine -building 
enterprises products (namely buses, boxcars and equipment).  
4.39.   Within this TPR exercise, Ukraine has raised a number of important questions on Mexico 's 
economic and trade policy, covering such areas as some aspects of  trade policy objectives and 
formulation, including the Joint Export Promotion Commission (COMPEX), representative offices 
ProMexico; foreign investment regime; customs valuation; support incentives in agriculture; 
anti-dumping measures; export support, et c. 
4.40.   We appreciate the responses from Mexico 's delegation which we are studying closely.  
4.41.   In conclusion, Ukraine wishes the delegation of Mexico a very successful Trade Policy Review 
and looks forward to continue further strengthening of our bilateral relatio ns. 
CHILE  
4.42.   Chile warmly welcomes the sixth trade policy review of the Republic of Mexico, and 
commends the country on the work carried out since its last review.  
4.43.   Chile and Mexico are two economies open to the world that share a common vision in their 
integr ation strategies. We are both promoters of free trade, and continuously pursue coordination 
on major issues on the international agenda.  
4.44.   The current economic and trade relations between both countries began early in the 1990s, 
in the context of the Latin A merican Integration Association (LAIA), when the two countries signed 
the Economic Complementarity Agreement No.  17 in 1991. Subsequently, Chile and Mexico 
decided to build on the Agreement by signing a comprehensive free trade agreement, which has 
been in  force since July  1999, and which provides for an exemption from tariffs for 98.3% of the 
tariff universe, including areas such as investments, trade in services, and intellectual property.  
4.45.   There is no doubt that this agreement marked an important mileston e in our trade policy, as 
it was the first one signed by my country. At the same time, it served as a base and a model for 
the negotiation of the free trade agreements that we signed afterwards, thus opening up a 
different path for our external policy. Yet , this is not all. The integration opportunities continued to 
be a part of our bilateral relationship, and in 2006, the free trade agreement became part of a 
larger agreement which included a political and cooperation dialogue, and which was established 
through the signing of a Strategic Association Agreement between Chile and Mexico.  
4.46.   This close bilateral relationship between Mexico and Chile also had an impact at regional 
level, giving rise to the Pacific Alliance together with Colombia and Peru, which was  a regional 
integration process created on 28  April 2011. The main objective of the Alliance was to build an 
area of deep integration in order to gradually move towards the free movement of goods, services, 
capital and persons, for outreach to the world, w ith special emphasis on the Asia -Pacific region.  
4.47.   Regarding the general trade figures resulting from our bilateral relationship, it should be 
pointed out that in 2016, total trade with Mexico reached US$3.201  billion, a reduction of 8% WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  compared with 2015. I n the same period, exports from Chile to Mexico totalled US$1.206  billion, a 
decrease of 9.9% compared with the previous year. This is largely due to the steep drop in mining 
exports ( -37%).  
4.48.   Mexican imports to Chile represented US$1.994  billion, with a dec rease of 6.8%, which was 
mainly due to a low demand for intermediate goods ( -20%); capital goods ( -1%); and consumer 
goods ( -0.7%).  
4.49.   At the multilateral level, Chile and Mexico have taken important common positions in 
various international forums. In this c onnection, I would like to underscore the work carried out in 
the WTO, where we hold common viewpoints on the agenda for the future, for example on 
electronic commerce, domestic regulation and many other issues which we are attempting to drive 
forward in t he WTO on a day -to-day basis.  
4.50.   At plurilateral level, I would like to highlight the cooperation and understanding developed 
by both countries in the framework of the APEC Forum, since my country joined in 1994. 
Furthermore, I cannot neglect to mention the j oint work carried out by Chile and Mexico during the 
negotiations on the Trans -Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement, and the Trade in Services 
Agreement (TiSA), which further demonstrates the commitment of both countries to free trade, 
trade integration and  the pursuit of higher levels of development for our populations.  
4.51.   Chile is particularly interested by the development strategy adopted by Mexico in recent 
years, through which important structural reforms have been implemented in areas including 
energy, ec onomic competition, telecommunications and broadcasting, finance, and labour. All of 
these reforms were the result of major changes to the country's legal system. There can be no 
doubt that these policies, in their turn, represent a source of inspiration f or many other Members 
also, Chile included.  
4.52.   This strategy has raised the level of productivity in Mexico, and increased its resilience in 
the face of a complex world economic situation, characterized by a significant drop in petrol prices, 
high volatility on global financial markets, and a period of sluggish growth in the world's largest 
economies.  
4.53.   It is most interesting to note the key elements that have recently affected Mexico's 
economic policy on negotiations, which seeks to strengthen the multilateral trading system, 
optimize its existing network of trade agreements, negotiate new agreements, and promote 
convergence between agreements and to ensure the legal defence of Mexico's trade interests, 
using the tools provided by the system.  
4.54.   As mentioned earlie r, Chile and Mexico have taken important common positions at bilateral, 
plurilateral and multilateral level, and in political and economic areas. This relationship will help 
strengthen the current trading system through the development of clear rules that provide greater 
predictability in trade in goods and services at global level.  
4.55.   Chile submitted 18 questions in connection with this trade policy review exercise, mainly 
regarding areas such as investment, sanitary and phytosanitary measures, competition po licy, 
State -owned enterprises, financial services, telecommunications and air transport. We greatly 
appreciate the replies to these questions.  
INDIA  
4.56.   As per the Secretariat 's report, the economic growth rate of Mexico accelerated to 2.5% for 
the period of 2 012-16 compared to 1.4% during the earlier period. The GDP per capita of Mexico 
also has risen to US$10,000. The economic growth has been driven by strong domestic demand 
and increased exports. The major challenges for the Mexican economy include addressin g income 
inequalities, reducing poverty, increasing labour productivity and diversifying the economy. In this 
regard, in 2013 the Government of Mexico introduced an ambitious reforms programme in the 
several areas including competition policy, tax, financi al and labour reforms. The flow of foreign 
direct investment into Mexico has also continued to rise with a series of reforms in the FDI regime 
in telecommunications, financial and energy sector. We congratulate the Government of Mexico for 
these achievemen ts and continued efforts for promoting economic growth.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.57.   During the period under review, Mexico 's total trade also grew significantly and stood at 
US$776 billion in 2015. We note from the Secretariat 's report that Mexico 's exports remain highly 
concentrated  with exports to the United States amounting for 81.2% of the total in 2015. The 
Government of Mexico is making efforts for diversifying its markets for exports with signing of 
several preferential agreements.  
4.58.   India shares friendly, warm and cordial relati ons with Mexico with a broad based framework 
for strengthening bilateral cooperation in all spheres. Economic and commercial relations are an 
important pillar of this relationship. The bilateral trade between both countries stood at 
US$5.15  billion in 2015 -2016. Investments from India into Mexico have also continued to grow 
steadily with the presence of several leading Indian companies in IT/software, pharmaceuticals, 
automobiles and other areas. Mexican companies are also investing in India in various sect ors 
including automobiles, chemicals and entertainment. The main items of import from Mexico into 
India include crude oil, electrical goods, machinery, gold, bulk minerals and exports from India 
include motor vehicles parts, aluminium products, iron and st eel products, bulk drugs and 
chemicals with trade ties expanding in all areas.  
4.59.   We thank Mexico for the replies provided to some of the questions we had raised. These 
would be reviewed by my authorities. However, I wish to raise some specific concerns which  
undermine the potential of our bilateral trade relations. The Secretariat 's report mentions that 
Mexico continues to impose several non -tariff measures. We would request Mexico to review these 
measures especially in the areas of textiles, leather, gems an d jewellery which are affecting India 's 
trade with Mexico. Since the last Trade Policy Review there have been no major changes in the 
regulatory framework or the procedures for revising standards, technical regulations and sanitary 
and phytosanitary measur es. We would request Mexico to review the standards and measures by 
harmoni zing to international codex levels. The regulatory framework governing anti -dumping, 
countervailing and safeguard measures also has not changed since the last review. The number of 
anti-dumping measures in force has increased during the period which also impacts imports from 
India. We would urge the Government of Mexico to take corrective steps to review these 
measures.  
4.60.   The export of Indian pharmaceutical products to Mexico continue to face difficulties due to 
the regulatory issues for market access for generic products especially due to the complex 
procedures and delays in the process of review of market approval. We have also highlighted to 
Mexico our concerns on the export of Casei n since India is one of the largest producers of milk. We 
earnestly hope Mexico would comprehensively look at and address all these issues.  
4.61.   Before I conclude, I wish to underline the vast underlying potential in our bilateral trade and 
economic ties. We lo ok forward to working closely with the authorities of Mexico in further 
expanding our economic ties for mutual benefit and wish the delegation of Mexico a productive and 
successful TPR.  
BRAZIL  
4.62.   This trade policy review coincides with positive developments i n Brazil -Mexico relations. In 
the last two years, our countries celebrated no less than 21 new bilateral instruments. Most 
importantly, we are also engaged in negotiations to expand our preferential trade agreement 
under the umbrella of LAIA -ALADI.  
4.63.   Brazil is committed to working with Mexico in order to enhance our economic ties. Trade 
flows are not in line with the economic scale of both countries. After a peak of US$ 10 billion in 
2012, our bilateral trade reached only US$ 7.3 billion dollars in 2016.  
4.64.   We are confident that current efforts to boost growth rates in both economies and the 
ongoing negotiations aimed at expanding our preferential trade agreement will contribute to more 
robust bilateral trade flows in the near future. Brazil also expects economi c benefits to arise from 
enhanced cooperation between Mercosur and the Pacific Alliance.  
4.65.   Brazil values the diversified composition of our bilateral trade, comprising a range of 
commodities and industrial goods, as well as the relatively high lev el of suppl y-chain integration in 
both countries, notably in the automotive sector.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.66.   As regards investments, Brazil is the main destination of Mexican FDI in Latin America and 
the second in  the world, with a stock of US$ 27.6 billion in 2014. Brazilian companies also have 
sizable investme nts in Mexico, including "greenfield"  projects in the chemical and steel sectors. In 
2015, Brazil and Mexico signed an Agreement on Cooperation and Investment Facilitation (ACFI), 
which is under congressional review in Brazil.  
4.67.   In addit ion to its very active agenda of bilateral and regional trade agreements, Mexico has 
also been a key and constructive player in the multilateral trading system, contributing both to the 
WTO regular work and to its negotiating arm. Brazil high lights Mexico' s engagement in endeavors 
to ensure a successful Buenos Aires ministerial, a point which is of particular relevance in the 
present environment of rising protectionism in important countries.  
4.68.   Mexico’s domestic measures in the period under review were consis tent with the country’s 
option for a generally open economic and trade environment. We noted with interest that Mexico is 
pursuing economic reforms in a number of areas.  
4.69.   Brazil also praises Mexico for having reduced applied tariffs during the review perio d. The 
average tariff protection for agricultural products was lowered from 20.9% in 2012 to 14.3% in 
2016; the highest rate, from 254% to 100%. As a large agricultural exporter, Brazil welcomes 
these measures, although we cannot fail to note that agricult ural tariffs are still at a much higher 
level than industrial ones.  
4.70.   Brazil also wishes to highlight its concern, reflected in written questions, with SPS measures 
affecting exports of food products, particularly given the lack of a timeframe for the resolu tion of 
some long -outstanding issues. Risk assessment for beef and pork, for example, regarding the 
recognition of Brazilian zones that are free of foot -and-mouth disease, is pending since 2006; 
procedures to obtain the phytosanitary certificate to export apples to Mexico are pending since 
2005; in the case of rice, the procedures were initiated in 2013. We look forward to working with 
Mexico to address these concerns. In the case of rice, we received overnight preliminary reports 
that the Mexican governmen t has decided to authorize imports of Brazilian rice. If confirmed, this 
is an encouraging development.  
4.71.   Ending on this positive note, and in concluding, we thank Mexico for the replies to our 
questions, which we will carefully consider in Brasilia. We wis h the Mexican delegation a very 
successful Trade Policy Review.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.72.   Mexico 's trade regime is naturally of deep interest and im portance to the United States. 
Total two -way in goods and services trade between the United States and Mexico reached 
US$579.7 billion in 2016 – more than US$1.5 billion per day.  Mexico is currently our third largest 
trading partner, and our second lar gest market for goods exports. According to the Secretariat 
report, in 2015, 81 % of all Mexican merchandise exports went to the United States, and 47 % of 
Mexican merchandise imports came from the United States.  
4.73.   We are pleased to note that since Mexico 's previous Trade Policy Review in 2013, the United 
States and Mexico have worked together to advance the Trade Facilitation Agre ement and to 
address a number of noteworthy bilatera l trade issues.  
4.74.   Since its last TPR, Mexico also has undertaken a number of historic reforms designed to 
boost economic growth through enhanced competition and o penness to foreign investment. The 
2013 ener gy reform opened Mexico 's hydrocarbon and power generation sectors to foreign 
investment for the first time in decades, creating new opportunities for trading partners and 
paving the way for the modernization of both sectors. Likewise, Mexico 's 2013 -14 ref orms of the 
telecommunications sector eliminated longstanding limitations on foreign investment, and 
implemented new regulations t o promote greater competition. As a result, foreign investment has 
increased, consumer prices have declined significantly and the quality of service has improved.  
4.75.   Finally, we would highlight that in 2016, Mexico also took a positive step to improve its 
intellectual property rights regime with the passage of legislation establishing an opposition 
proceeding for trademark applicati ons, a much -needed update to Mexico 's trademark system.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.76.   Despite these positive achievements, however, in our view there remain areas where further 
improvements are necessary:  
4.77.   The first is in the area of intellectual proper ty protection and enforcement. In  addition to our 
longstanding concerns about updates to Mexico 's copyright law, necessary to implement the WIPO 
Copyright Treaty and the WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty, we are also concerned that 
enforcement has declined recently.  Given the shared  border between the United States and 
Mexico, we continue to believe it is important that Mexican customs officials have the authority to 
seize counterfeit trademark and pirated copyright goods, on their own authority, without the need 
for a right holder c omplaint including goods in transit. We urge Mexico to amend its customs law to 
enable Mexican Customs to seize shipments ex officio when they have reason to believe or suspect 
that a good is counterfeit or pirated.   
4.78.   Additionally, we note that in 2016, th ere was an increase in unlawful camcorders in Mexico, 
which leads to the proliferation of onlin e piracy of new release movies.  Also in 2016, there was a 
significant decrease in seizures, investigations, and prosecutions by Mexican law enforcement 
related t o intellectual property offenses. We urge Mexico to strengthen its ability to effectively 
enforce intellectual property rights.  
4.79.   We note that Mexico already has undertaken efforts to simplify customs procedures and 
reduce import costs, but we believe there  is still scope to reduce the incidence  of non -tariff border 
measures.  In our view, one such area is Mexico 's continued use of reference prices for used cars, 
footwear and certain types of apparel and textiles products. We encourage Mexico to increase the 
level of transparency about how such prices are determined and applied.  
4.80.   As the Secretariat notes, in 2013, Mexico resumed the system of licenses for the 
importation of certain g oods, including steel products.  We understand that the goal of the system 
is to establish automatic import licensing to combat customs fraud and improve statistical 
monitoring of steel imports, but in the past, its implementation also has created significant delays 
at the border  for shipments entering Mexico.  We encourage Mexico to c ontinue its collaboration 
with trading partners to ensure that implementation of its import licensing system does not create 
unnecessary burdens or result in disruption of trade.  
4.81.   Finally, with the successful entry into force of the TFA this year, the Unit ed States urges our 
trading partners to fully and quickly imple ment this important agreement. This includes 
maintaining trade facilitative procedures and measures they currently undertake as part of TFA 
implementation.  
4.82.   In conclusion, we commend Mexico 's strong commitment to economic and other reforms 
that promote open markets, transparency and  social and economic stability.  We would also to take 
this opportunity to commend Mexico for its consistent leadership at the WTO, as overseen by a 
hard-working staff,  and exemplified notably in the serious approach Mex ico brings to the TPR 
process. We look forward to continued work with Mexico, and other WTO Members, to support and 
strengthen our trade relations.  
EL SALVADOR  
4.83.   It is an honour for El Salvador to participa te in this transparency exercise. In these times of 
international uncertainty, as a Latin American country that identifies fully with the challenges 
currently faced by Mexico, we are extremely pleased by the Mexican Government's efforts to 
continue improvi ng living conditions for the population, in all aspects of social and economic order.  
4.84.   Turning to the matter at hand, in the economic field, it is important to recognize that, during 
the period under review, economic growth accelerated in Mexico: GDP increa sed at an average 
rate of 2.5% per year, compared with 1.4% for the period 2007 -2011. GDP per capita represented 
around US$10,000.  
4.85.   Furthermore, Mexico kept inflation under control, within a range of 2% to 4% annually, 
corresponding to the fluctuation band determined by the Bank of Mexico.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.86.   It is important to note the ambitious programme of reforms implemented by the 
Government in 2013 in 11 different areas, including competition policy, tax policy, energy, 
financial services and telecommunications.  
4.87.   As is the  case for many countries in the region, including my own, despite the enormous 
efforts to introduce reforms, which have managed to install a general climate of macroeconomic 
stability, Mexico is still facing major challenges, particularly as regards the wi de disparity in 
income, insecurity and shortcomings in governance, as well as high dependence on a single 
market.  
4.88.   Mexico is a key social partner for El Salvador, and the strengthening of our trade relations 
remains a priority for my country, with a view to  ensuring that trade flows in both directions, in 
accordance with the rules governing international trade.  
4.89.   In the 1990s, we signed a free trade agreement with Mexico, which in 2013, was replaced 
by a more comprehensive agreement covering all of the countri es in Central America. 
The Central  America –Mexico Free Trade Agreement, also called the Homologation Agreement 
Mexico –Central America, which replaced the following three agreements:  
 the Free Trade Agreement between Mexico and the countries of the Northern Triangle of 
Central America (Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras);  
 the Mexico –Nicaragua Free Trade Agreement; and  
 the Mexico –Costa Rica Free Trade Agreement.  
4.90.   We are therefore pleased by the new impetus in the work of the different committees under 
the Agre ement, which will enable us to enter into new agreements to further promote our bilateral 
trade.  
4.91.   Mexico is an important trading partner for El Salvador, and is the fourth destination for our 
exports after the United States, Central America and the Dominica n Republic, and our fourth main 
supplier of goods.  
4.92.   According to information from the Central Reserve Bank of El Salvador, for the period 
2014-2016, exports from El Salvador to Mexico amounted to an average of US$67  million 
annually, and consisted of garmen ts, leather bags, medicines for human use, and plastic products, 
among other goods. Imports from Mexico represented US$745  million annually during the same 
period, and consisted mainly of televisions, medicines for human use, vehicles, paper and 
paperboard  products, avocados, among other products.  
4.93.   It should be highlighted that the efforts of the Government of El Salvador to improve the 
business climate and increase levels of security resulted in a 2.5% increase in investment in 2016, 
making Mexico the third  largest investor in the country.1 
4.94.   Lastly, attention should be drawn to the leading role of Mexico in the WTO and its 
outstanding participation in the regular work and negotiations that are carried out. It should also 
be noted that Mexico participates acti vely in various initiatives aimed at discussing current world 
issues that are relevant for this Organization.  
4.95.   I would like to end by wishing Mexico every success in this trade policy exercise.  
4.96.   We thank Mexico for its replies to our questions, which we have  sent to our capital for 
examination.  
                                                
1 http://avances.sv/gobierno/mexico -confia -en-el-clima-de-inversion -de-el-salvador.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.97.   Let me start by highlighting that Mexico is an important strategic and economic partner of 
the European Union and was one of the first countries with which we established diplomatic 
relations more than 50 years ago.  
4.98.   It is the first country in Latin America with whom the European Union concluded a Global 
Agreement, in force since 2000. Both the EU and Mexico are open economies which have resisted 
protectionist policies and are strongly promoting initiati ves, whether multilateral or bilateral, to 
eliminate barriers for trade.  
4.99.   With reference to Mexico 's economic policy, the EU acknowledges the efforts taken by 
Mexico under the "Pact for Mexico " that have allowed reforms in key economic sectors such as 
energ y, telecommunication, education and financial services. In the EU 's view, these reforms will 
greatly benefit Mexico 's economic, commercial, business and investment relations with the EU as 
well as with the other Mexican trading partners.  
4.100.   Focusing on Mexico 's trade policy, the EU notes that during the period under review it has 
been particularly successful in resisting domestic pressures caused by the global crisis. In 
particular, the EU appreciates the ambitious foreign trade objectives set out in the Natio nal 
Development Plan for 2013 -2018 and recognizes that the measures carried out so far for its 
implementation go in the right direction.  
4.101.   Mexico 's free trade and investment -friendly strategies and sound macroeconomic policies 
have consolidated the country 's export and import vocation and, as a result, Mexico 's trade policy 
is nowadays among the most open in the world and the EU praises Mexico for that.  
4.102.   The EU also commends Mexico for the recorded improvements in certain areas that were 
raised as a concern at the last trade policy review:  
4.103.   First, Mexico undertook a unilateral reduction or elimination of tariffs on goods positioned 
Mexico as the second country with the lowest import tariffs on industrial goods (4.2%) in Latin 
America.  
4.104.   Second, Mexico carried ou t important reforms which eliminated several barriers to FDIs 
and trade in services, mainly affecting telecommunications and broadcasting, but also the financial 
and energy sectors.  
4.105.   However, Mexico 's export markets remain still highly concentrated and, in this regard, the 
EU encourages Mexico to continue seeking market diversification.  
4.106.   A word on our bilateral relationship. EU -Mexico trade has steadily increased and the EU is 
currently Mexico 's third -largest trading partner with around 8% of Mexico 's total t rade taking place 
with the EU in 2016. European investments have been historically important in Mexico as 
demonstrated by the fact that over 37% of foreign direct investment in Mexico since 2000 has 
come from the EU.  
4.107.   The EU is fully committed to advancing  on the the modernisation of the EU -Mexico Global 
Agreement as a key priority, which will create a comprehensive and up -to-date framework for our 
relations.  
4.108.   At the multilateral level, Mexico is strongly advocating free trade and I would like to 
compliment  Mexico for its active and constructive participat ion in the works of this Organiz ation 
and for its commitment and support for the multilateral trading system.  
4.109.   While the EU commends Mexico for being one of the few Members to notify everything 
under Categor y A of the Trade Facilitation Agreement, the EU somewhat regrets that Mexico is not 
part of some important plurilateral agreements, notably the Information Technology and the 
Government Procurement Agreements as well as the Agreement on Trade in Civil Airc raft. In the 
EU's view, taking into account the current geo -political situation, Mexico should consider joining 
these agreements.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.110.   The EU would like to raise also just a few concerns as regards Mexican trade and 
investment policy.   
4.111.   As a general remark, whi le Mexican legislation is advanced as regards the various aspects 
of its trade policy, the EU observes shortcomings in the practical implementation of the existing 
legislation.  
4.112.   Turning to the specific EU concerns, I would like to draw the attention on the  following 
issues:  
4.113.   First of all, more efforts are needed as regards effective and unified application of customs 
procedures. In particular, EU operators are concerned with the highly burdensome and costly 
import procedures that often require a disproporti onally high quantity of documents. The situation 
seems also to be particularly widespread when registering a product or for going through sanitary 
and phytosanitary import procedures.  
4.114.   Secondly, the EU has addressed to Mexico a series of questions seeking clarifications on its 
intellectual property rules and procedures. We see scope for improvements as regards IPR 
enforcement and GIs protection.   
4.115.   Lastly, the EU would encourage Mexico to continue its efforts in opening up its markets to 
foreign enterprises in particular in the area of government procurement as well as services.  
4.116.   On behalf of the EU, I wish Mexico 's delegation useful and constructive exchanges during 
its Trade Policy Review.   
THE SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU  
4.117.   The Separate Customs Te rritory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu enjoy  a strong and 
growing bilateral economic relationship with Mexico. In 2016, Mexico was our 24th largest trading 
partner, with two -way trade to the value of USš2.9 billion, and for sev eral years it has been our 
most important trading partner in Latin America. We also recognize the central role played by 
Mexico in the Americas. With its strategic location, and with ports on both the Atlantic and the 
Pacific, it acts as a bridge between N orth and South America.  
4.118.   In terms of trade and investment, not surprisingly, Mexico has made progress on a number 
of fronts since its last trade policy review. Over the period under review, GDP has grown at an 
average annual rate of 2.5%, and per capita GD P has reached an average of about US$10,000. 
Inflation remains under control, within a range of 2% to 4% annually, and within the fluctuation 
band determined by the Bank of Mexico. Impressive progress has been made in several key areas 
of its economy and t rade. Since 2013, reforms have been introduced in 11 different sectors, and 
we applaud its National Development Plan for 2013 -2018 aimed at reaffirming Mexico 's 
commitment to free trade. We also welcome Mexico 's efforts to create a more favourable 
investme nt climate, to increase investment and boost competitiveness.  
4.119.   My delegation is following with particular interest Mexico 's efforts to streamline its customs 
procedures, especially the establishment of a Mexican Digital Window for Foreign Trade (Digital 
Window) and its aim to abolish the requirement to use the services of customs brokers. Some of 
our companies, however, have been encountering difficulties with the Mexican authorities in this 
respect. While Mexico is generally a very open economy, we understa nd that some issues arise 
once the company or product has entered the country. Perhaps there is room here for further 
streamlining and improvement. We certainly encourage Mexico to pursue efforts to simplify 
customs procedures, so the customs regime become s clearer, more transparent, and more 
predictable for foreign companies.  
4.120.   We also note that Mexico is one of the most active users of anti -dumping (AD) measures. 
By the end of 2016, for example, it had 64 definitive AD measures in place. We would therefore 
urge a more prudent approach to the initiation of actions or investigations, so that such measures 
do not reach a point where they constitute a systemic barrier to trade.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.121.   We commend Mexico on its firm commitment to the multilateral trading system and on it s 
active and constructive role in the WTO. It has proved itself a true friend of the system. Another 
point of interest to us is that, while Mexico has relatively low tariffs on information and 
communication technology products, it is not a participant in t he WTO ITA. We encourage Mexico 
to join this Agreement. It is our belief that the continued liberalization of tariffs on these products 
globally will further strengthen the development of this sector. We also suggest that Mexico joins 
the Agreement on Gove rnment Procurement (GPA), which would further demonstrate its 
constructive role in the WTO in defining the path forward.  
4.122.   In the increasingly complex global economy, it is importa nt for Mexico to remain 
outward -looking and pursue policies that facilitate tr ade. We admire its strong leadership and 
constructive role in many regional and multilateral fora, including the WTO. We also welcome 
Mexico 's commitment to open markets and trade policies focusing on creating a favourable 
investment climate and trading re gime.   
4.123.   In conclusion, we look forward to continuing to work closely with Mexico and others in 
support of the multilateral trading system, and we wish Mexico a very successful Trade Policy 
Review  
CHINA  
4.124.   Let me start by commending Mexico for their sound econ omic performance over the period 
under review. Mexico has carried out structural reform to boost the competitiveness of its 
economy, which fostered a healthy growth trend in service and manufacturing sectors, and 
consequently offset the impact of the oil p rice decline and the shrinking of its mining output in the 
last few years.  
4.125.   Notably, trade has continued to be an important driver for Mexico 's economic growth. 
During 2011 -2015, export of goods and services from Mexico grew at an average rate of 6.7%, 
outpacing its 2.5% average GDP growth in the same period.  
4.126.   We note with pleasure that Mexico has further improved the openness of its trade regime 
by lowering the applied tariff and streamlining custom clearance and inspection procedures.  
4.127.   We also comment Mexico  for its strong commitment to free trade, especially against the 
current backdrop of uncertainties and growing protectionism around the globe. Mexico is a staunch 
support of the multilateral trading system, and clearly a central participant in all the ongo ing WTO 
negotiations towards MC11. We enjoyed our good working relations with the Mexican Mission, led 
by Ambassador Zapata Barradas. And we appreciate his active role in many of the negotiation and 
regular bodies.  
4.128.   China and Mexico enjoy close trade ties, with Mexico being our second largest trading 
partner in Latin America, and China being the second largest trading partner of Mexico worldwide. 
However, in the case of bilateral investment, we still have great potential to tap into. Mexico 's 
ongoing reform has encouraged more Chinese companies to target Mexico as an investing 
destination, we hope this TPR could be an opportunity to help Chinese enterprises better 
understand Mexico 's investment regime.  
4.129.   While recognizing Mexico 's active role in the WTO and in the regional and bilateral trade 
negotiation fronts, we also noticed that Mexico still have not joined in the plurilateral initiatives, 
such as the ITA and EGA. As an important player in environmental goods and IT industries, we 
believe that Mexico 's parti cipation in these agreements and negotiations is an important boost for 
its own economic development and the global trade liberalization efforts.  
4.130.   And during the review period, Mexico increased its use of anti -dumping measures. Among 
the 64 anti -dumping mea sures in force at the end of 2016, over half of them are applied to 
imports from China. We hope that Mexico could refrain from using trade remedy measures, and we 
will continue to consult with Mexico bilaterally and multilaterally to make sure those measur es are 
conform to WTO rules.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.131.   We have submitted follow -up questions related to the aforementioned issues in writing 
before this review meeting, and we would appreciate Mexico 's efforts in providing replies to them.  
INDONESIA  
4.132.   We wish to thank the Mexican del egation for having shared information and experience 
with this forum, various economic and trade policies taken by the Government of Mexico with a 
view to achieve sustainable growth. It is a privilege for my delegation to be directly engaged with 
the Mexic an delegation in their trade review process.  
4.133.   Speaking of economic relations, Indonesia -Mexico bilat eral trade volume reached 
US$92  million in 2016, with major export product of vehicles, electrical machinery, footwear, 
rubber, textile, machinery.  
4.134.   Indonesia  would also highlight the fact that from 2011 to 2015, Indonesia -Mexico bilateral 
trade flows declined by 2.51%. While between 2015 and 2016 alone, bilateral trade declined by 
2.89%. This trend has indeed become one of our concerns in improving trade betwe en the two 
countries. Indonesia, however, remains to believe that bilateral trade between the two countries 
still have ample room for improvement, especially through close cooperation in addressing 
problems that have been hindering trade growth.  
4.135.   In this re view, Indonesia would like to reiterate the existence of trade barriers, such as 
issues related to the SPS policies, import licensing and customs clearance, that have become 
concerns of Indonesian exporters. In this respect, Indonesia expects that, through  this Trade 
Policy Review, those issues can be addressed.  
4.136.   Indonesia wishes to thank Mexico for providing responses and answers to our written 
questions concerning some trade -related policies of Mexico and its practices. Indonesia has also 
submitted additio nal questions and we look forward to receiving further answers and responses.  
4.137.   Finally, I would like to conclude my remarks by expressing our profound appreciation to 
the delegation of Mexico, particularly to the Mexican Permanent Mission in Geneva under th e 
leadership of Ambassador Roberto Zapata Barradas, for their continued cooperation in advancing 
the multilateral trading system.  
NORWAY  
4.138.   The Mexican economy has shown good capacity to recover from the recent global growth 
slowdown and the fall in oil pric es. Good macroeconomic policy and regulations have contributed to 
this. Economic activity is growing at a steady pace. Strong domestic demand as well as increased 
exports to the U nited States are contributing factors.   
4.139.   As others have stressed, Mexico is a n open economy. However, a particular risk for the 
Mexican economy is the high dependence on a single export market. Mexico has negotiated 
several free trade agreements, which will contribute to diversifying Mexico 's export markets. We 
note with interest t he statement in Mexico 's report that "the negotiation of the TPP is of prime 
importance because of its level of ambition, the extensive range of disciplines it covers, the high 
standards it lays down in each of those disciplines… ". We encourage Mexico to t ake a similar 
ambitious approach to trade liberalization in its future trade policy.  
4.140.   The relationship between Mexico and Norway, both politically and economically, is 
excellent.  
4.141.   The ongoing review of the free trade agreement between Mexico and the EFTA -countries is 
an important part of deepening our relationship. We hope we can swiftly finalize the review 
process.  
4.142.   We congratulate the Mexican government with good progress in its ambitious structural 
reform program, which covers sectors such as competition policy, tax policy, energy, financial 
services and telecommunications, as highlighted by many here today. Much has been achieved in a 
few years. The reforms will contribute to lifting potential growth over the medium term by raising WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  productivity. For Mexic o to benefit fully from these reforms, it is important to ensure complete and 
countrywide implementation. Strengthening administrative capacity and the rule of law, 
addressing security problems and reducing corruption should continue to be in focus.  
4.143.   We ar e particularly impressed with the achievements of the tax reform. Improved revenue 
collection can contribute to reducing economic inequality.  
4.144.   The Mexican G overnment 's efforts to eliminate fossil fuel subsidies while reducing the 
effect of the reform on th e low -income segments of the population is appreciated. We also 
commend the success Mexico has had in implementing the energy reform.  
4.145.   Increased female participation in the workforce will contribute to strengthening the 
Mexican economy. We are therefore pl eased to see that the gender aspect is emphasized in 
several reforms, and we hope this aspect will continue to be a focal point in future reforms.  
4.146.   Despite the openness of the Mexican economy, some Norwegian companies still encounter 
difficulties in intera cting with the Mexican bureaucracy. In particular, some issues arise once the 
company or product has entered the country - and when it comes to getting refund of the value 
added tax. This bureaucratic "red tape " can discourage foreign companies from expand ing to 
Mexico, which is an otherwise attractive market. We therefore welcome efforts to have in place an 
electronic VAT refund process.  
4.147.   As others, Norway also notes Mexico 's use of antidumping measures. We hope that a 
certain restraint can be exercised in the future.  
4.148.   Norway and Mexico have worked closely together on a number of issues. Among many 
areas, we would like to laud Mexico 's constructive participation in the trade facilitation (TF) 
negotiations.  
4.149.   Mexico is forward looking on services and a partner in the TiSA negotiations as well as 
supporting work on services and electronic commerce in the WTO.  
4.150.   We have noted that Mexico has not supported the plurilateral negotiations and agreements 
on ITA and EGA within the WTO. We agree that the multilateral appr oach is always preferred, but 
we would like to urge Mexico to consider joining plurilateral initiatives, which can contribute to 
moving the multila teral trading system forward.  
4.151.   We commend Mexico 's efforts as part of the MIKTA -group for the timely initiativ e on trade 
and investment. The issues are strongly interlinked and have become even more so in the course 
of the last two -three decades.  
4.152.   Norway credits Mexico for its constructive and positive contributions and its role as a 
strong defender of the multila teral trading system. Together we can contribute to strengthening 
the global commitment to fight protectionism and develop the WTO of the future. We appreciate 
the roles that Mexico has taken on in chairing and facilitating negotiations, not least in servi ces 
and at the last ministerial conference. We look forward to continue conversations and working 
together to bring issues forward in the WTO, as we move towards Buenos Aires and beyond.  
DOMINICAN  REPUBLIC   
4.153.   Mexico is an important trading partner for the Do minican Republic. The flow of foreign 
direct investment to the Dominican Republic from Mexico represented US$801.6  million during the 
period 2010 -2016, going to various sectors of the national economy, mainly transport, tourism, 
trade, telecommunications, real estate and free zones. Mexico's investment amounted to some 
5.1% of the total investment in the Dominican Republic during this period, and trade between the 
two countries amounted to US$7.1408  billion for the period 2010 -2016, providing Mexico with a 
trade surplus, with total exports to the Dominican Republic amounting to US$6.9116  billion for the 
same period.  
4.154.   We congratulate Mexico, as we have seen its economy continue on a course of sustained 
growth since its last trade policy review in 2013. During the period 2012 -2016, GDP grew at an WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  annual average rate of 2.5%, higher than the 1.4% recorded over the period 2007 -2011, while 
per capita GDP rose to approximately US$10,000. The Secretariat report indicates that economic 
growth has been sustained by str onger domestic demand and increased exports of manufactured 
goods to the United States.  
4.155.   The report also states that in 2013, Mexico introduced an ambitious programme of reform 
in 11 different sectors, including: competition policy, tax policy, energy, fina ncial services and 
telecommunications. These are crucial sectors for a country's economic development, and we 
would like to acknowledge the Mexican authorities for their implementation of these reforms. The 
tax reform led to growth in tax revenue, from 9.7 % of GDP in 2013 to 13.1% in 2015, while 
government finances became significantly less dependent on oil revenue, which is very positive, 
given the low oil prices recorded during this period. However, despite these efforts, the report 
indicates that Mexico is still facing major challenges, particularly as regards the wide disparity in 
income, insecurity and shortcomings in governance, as well as high dependence on the US market.  
4.156.   It is important for Mexico to continue its efforts to diversify its markets, as the report 
points out that exports remain highly concentrated on the US market; exports to the United States 
accounted for 81.2% of the total in 2015, four percentage points more than in 2012, while imports 
from the United States in 2015 accounted for 47.4 % of the total.  
4.157.   We welcome the reforms carried out by Mexico to the foreign direct investment regime 
during the review period, which mainly affected telecommunications and broadcasting, as well as 
the financial and energy sectors. We also welcome the refor ms carried out in the area of customs, 
in particular the establishment of the Mexican Digital Window for Foreign Trade (Digital Window) 
and abolition of the requirement to use the services of a customs broker.  
4.158.   We furthermore congratulate Mexico for substan tially and unilaterally reducing applied 
tariffs during the review period; the average MFN tariff fell from 6.2% in 2012 to 5.5% in 2016. 
However, we urge it to change the compound tariffs, which affect 44 tariff lines, into ad valorem  
tariffs, in order to  ensure better predictability for trade in these goods.  
4.159.   We note with interest the reform carried out by Mexico in the area of competition policy, 
though which the new Federal Law on Economic Competition was published. It is also important to 
highlight the publication, in 2014, of the Federal Telecommunications and Broadcasting Law, 
repealing the specific laws that had applied to these sectors and affecting competition therein. 
Following these reforms, there are now two authorities responsible for implementi ng the Federal 
Law on Economic Competition, one of which – the Federal Telecommunications Institute – is solely 
responsible for regulating competition in this sector. During the review period, the competition 
authorities initiated 57 investigations into vi olations of the competition law, of which eight led to 
sanctions.  
4.160.   Lastly, the Dominican Republic submitted several questions to Mexico with regard to its 
foreign investment regime, intellectual property regime, subsidy programmes, among others, and 
we than k Mexico for its replies. We would like to end by congratulating Mexico, and we wish it 
much success in this sixth trade policy review and in the future.  
GUATEMALA  
4.161.   Relations between Guatemala and Mexico are based on close ties of friendship, cooperation 
and convergence. In addition to sharing a border which is almost a  thousand kilometres long, we 
share deep historical, cultural and commercial ties which are solid foundations for maintaining a 
dynamic, evolving and long -term bilateral agenda. Proof of this are the more than 40 bilateral 
agreements between our countries (21 of which have been signed since 2013) covering a wide 
range of areas. These agreements clearly demonstrate the commitment of our countries' 
authorities to enhancing cooperation, security a nd the development and growth of our societies.  
4.162.   Trade relations between Mexico and Guatemala are based on the Mexico -Central America 
Homologation Treaty, which has replaced, at the bilateral level, the free trade agreement between 
our countries since 2001.  This instrument represents an important tool for facilitating transactions 
and closer trade ties between our countries.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.163.   At the end of 2016, our bilateral trade flow totalled US$2.4  billion. Mexico is the 
fifth largest destination for Guatemalan exports an d is our second largest source of imports. 
Guatemala's main imports from Mexico include machines, mechanical appliances, plastics and 
plastic products, while its main exports to Mexico are edible fats and oils, paper and cardboard 
products and textile mate rials. 
4.164.   With regard to investments, Mexico is one of Guatemala's main sources of foreign direct 
investment. It is estimated that Mexico has invested over US$2.7  billion in Guatemala since 1990. 
More than 100 Mexican enterprises are currently operating in Gu atemala, most of which are in 
industry and trade in services.  
4.165.   With respect to the revision of Mexican trade policies that is currently under way, we can 
see that during the period under review, significant structural reforms were carried out, which 
have co ntributed to economic growth and also enhanced fluidity and efficiency in trade with 
third countries.  
4.166.   We would like to draw attention to the implementation of the administrative reforms 
programme, including the tax reform, which has increased tax revenues by more than 3%. Other 
relevant improvements from this period include those aimed at simplifying the foreign direct 
investment regime, the establishment of the Digital Window for Foreign Trade, the abolition of the 
requirement to use the services of a cust oms broker, the unilateral reduction of various applied 
tariffs and the revision of the legal framework for competition.  
4.167.   As to significant challenges for the future, it is important to continue efforts to reduce 
income disparities, monitor the current acco unt deficit and explore new markets which would allow 
Mexico to diversify in the short term its export destinations.  
4.168.   In general terms, we recognize the important changes and reforms implemented by Mexico 
during the period under review. We would also like t o take this opportunity to welcome the replies 
to the questions submitted by Guatemala during this review, which have already been forwarded 
to our capital.  
4.169.   We hope to continue strengthening our important ties with Mexico and wish the Mexican 
delegation a successful conc lusion their country's seventh Trade Policy R eview.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.170.   Korea notes that Mexico 's economy has experienced continued growth during the period 
under review. We also note that Mexico has implemented 11 structural reforms to addres s 
challenges raised by uncertainties in the world economy, encompassing the areas of energy, 
telecommunications, tax, finance, competition policy, education and more.  
4.171.   We believe that these reforms were instrumental for Mexico to increasing the 
competitiven ess of its industries and attracting more FDI. It is our hope that Mexico will continue 
its reform efforts to achieve the goals it has established.  
4.172.   We welcome that Mexico continues to pursue a policy of trade liberalization and regional 
economic integratio n with 12 free trade agreements covering 46 countries. Since the previous 
review, four new free trade agreements, including the Pacific Alliance, have entered into force.  
4.173.   We are confident that these agreements will contribute to creating new commercial 
opportunities for Mexico and diversifying its export markets. We also hope that these agreements 
will help Mexico bring more competition in its domestic market and upgrade its trade and 
investment regime.  
4.174.   We are pleased that Mexico continues to participate ac tively in the multilateral trading 
system, including by ratifying the Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
4.175.   However, we note that Mexico is not a party to plurilateral agreements such as the ITA, 
ITA II and GPA. We hope that Mexico will join these plurilateral fra meworks in the near future so 
that it can more fully enjoy and expand the benefits of free trade in these important areas.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.176.   Turning to the bilateral front, we are pleased that Korea and Mexico have developed a 
strong economic relationship since establishing  bilateral diplomatic relationship in 1962.  
4.177.   Today, Mexico is the largest trading partner of Korea in Latin America. The bilateral trade 
volume between the two countries increased to more than US$13 billion in 2016.  
4.178.   Korea 's direct investment in Mexico amoun ted to US$5.6 billion as of last June. A number 
of Korean companies such as Samsung and LG have made substantial investments in Mexico, and 
KIA motors opened a new manufacturing plant in Pesqueria last year.  
4.179.   We are encouraged that bilateral dialogues are u nder way to explore common ground for a 
free trade agreement by Korea and Mexico. Believing that the economic ties between the two 
countries can be further developed through an FTA, we look forward to fruitful results from this 
dialogue.  
4.180.   Korea and Mexico a re also strengthening cooperation at various international fora such as 
APEC and G20. In particular, Korea and Mexico are both members of MIKTA, a consultation 
platform to discuss global issues among five middle -ground countries including Indonesia, Turkey  
and Australia.  
4.181.   In this house, MIKTA has taken initiatives to facilitate WTO discussions by organizing 
seminars on e -commerce and investment. I hope that both countries will continue to work 
together closely in the WTO through MIKTA.  
4.182.   At this TPR, my delega tion has submitted written questions on tax refunds, customs 
procedures and a trade remedy measure.  
4.183.   We are grateful for the efforts of the Mexican delegation to provide answers in a timely 
manner. After reviewing them carefully, we might have some follow -up questions.  
4.184.   In conclusion, Korea appreciates Mexico 's contribution to the multilateral trading system as 
a staunch supporter of free trade. Against the backdrop of rising protectionism, it is our sincere 
hope that Korea and Mexico will continue to work cl osely together to strengthen the multilateral 
trading system and deliver fruitful outcomes at MC 11.  
JAPAN  
4.185.   It is a pleasure for Japan to take part in the TPR meeting for Mexico. We, Mexico and 
Japan, have been important partners for years. Japan will make continuous efforts to maintain and 
further develop the strong ties between us.  
4.186.   Let me begin by touching on the general economic situation. According to the Secretariat 's 
report, the Mexican economy has been achieving sustained economic growth since the las t review. 
The country 's average annual economic growth rate during the review period was 2.8%, which is a 
commendable achievement.  
4.187.   Manufacturing is the most important sector of Mexican industry. It serves as a driving force 
of the country 's robust economic  growth. For instance, 85% of Mexico 's exports come from the 
manufacturing sector, and direct investment from foreign investors primarily goes to its 
manufacturing sector.  
4.188.   While Japan positively evaluates Mexico 's robust development of this sector, Japan h opes 
that the country will make efforts toward economic diversification with a view to stabilizing its 
economy. The telecommunications sector seems to be promising.  
4.189.   Now let me briefly touch upon the Mexican trade policies at the WTO.  
4.190.   Japan commends the fac t that Mexico has actively contributed to the multilateral trading 
system in which the WTO plays a central role. In particular, Japan commends Mexico on duly 
carrying out notification of its trade policies. Also, Japan positively commends Mexico for its ac tive 
engagement in the discussion on modern issues addressing recent international trade change. For WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  example, Mexico, together with the other MIKTA Members, hosted the workshop on electronic 
commerce in December, which is commendable. With regard to the ex panded ITA, Japan expects 
Mexico to become a member of the ITA expansion.  
4.191.   Let me turn to the other trade issues , namely RTAs. The Secretariat r eport notes that 
Mexico has concluded RTAs with 46 Members including Japan, and has negotiated a new FTA with 
Turkey. Japan, in cooperation with Mexico, would like to further discuss various topics including 
how economic partnership in the Asia -Pacific region should be, particularly how to promote the 
TPP. 
4.192.   With regard to the NAFTA renegotiation, Japan pays close atte ntion to that since it can 
possibly impact the business environment in Mexico, not only for Mexican companies, but also 
foreign companies including Japanese industries. In this sense, Japan urges Mexico to make its 
renegotiation process transparent and pre dictable.  
4.193.   Finally, let me make a couple of comments on tariffs and customs procedures.  
4.194.   Firstly , according to the Secretariat r eport, tariff rates for animal products, bacon and 
animal or vegetable fats and oils have been substantially reduced, which is co mmendable.  
4.195.   Second, the computerization of customs procedures using the Mexican Digital Window for 
Foreign Trade is highly commendable. Japan expects that this measure by the Mexican 
Government reduces costs and shortens the time required for customs cleara nce.  
4.196.   In conclusion, I would like to express our strong wish to continue cooperation between 
Mexico and Japan.  
ECUADOR  
4.197.   The timing of this trade policy review is opportune. Recent changes in the trade policy of 
important actors in world trade present challe nges to the development strategy that Mexico has 
been implementing. We trust that this exercise in transparency will help Mexico to respond to such 
challenges.  
4.198.   Next, I will refer to the aspects of the Mexican economy that we consider most striking, the 
structure of its foreign trade and its bilateral relations with Ecuador.  
4.199.   The Mexican economy has experienced steady economic growth over the past four years, 
with an average annual rate of 2.5%, which is higher than the 1.4% growth recorded during the 
previou s period. The Government is seeking to strengthen this economic growth through an 
ambitious programme of reforms, which include its competition policy, tax reform, promotion of 
foreign investment and reduced dependence on oil revenues. These measures are e xpected to help 
reduce the income disparity that still exists among the population.  
4.200.   Foreign trade and, in particular, exports of manufactured goods are one of the pillars 
underpinning the Mexican economy under the Development Plan 2013 -2018, which reaffirm s 
Mexico's commitment to free trade, the mobility of capital and integrated production. However, the 
high concentration of its exports, over 80% of which were destined for a single market, the 
United  States, in 2015 demonstrates the economy's considerable vulnerability to external factors. 
In light of the above, it would be advisable to further diversify and seek new markets, enhancing 
efforts to boost domestic demand.  
4.201.   With regard to trade policies and practices, attention is drawn to Mexico's binding of al l its 
tariff lines and reduction of its applied tariffs. However, the use of tariff quotas and other non -tariff 
measures, such as non -automatic licensing, technical regulations, and sanitary and phytosanitary 
measures, the risk analysis process of which is  not always expeditious, may restrict effective 
access to the Mexican market. Several of Ecuador's questions to Mexico refer to these issues.  
4.202.   With regard to bilateral relations with Ecuador, trade between the two countries has been 
framed in a Partial Scop e Agreement and has been characterized by a sustained deficit for Ecuador WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
- 32 - 
 
  which exceeded US$350  million in 2016. We would therefore like to take this opportunity to 
reiterate Ecuador's interest in achieving more balanced trade.  
4.203.   To conclude, we would like t o thank the Mexican delegation for their replies to our 
questions and to wish them success.  
SINGAPORE  
4.204.   Mexico is a close friend and partner of Singapore. We celebrated our 40th anniversary of 
bilateral relations last year, with our President making the firs t ever State Visit to Mexico. Bilateral 
economic relations are strong, and growing. Mexico is Singapore 's second -largest trading partner 
in Latin America, with bilateral trade standing at over US$3 billion in 2016. Cooperation across all 
areas – goods, ser vices and investment flows – has been trending up.  
4.205.   Singapore companies find Mexico an attractive market in Latin America, not least because 
of the efforts to restructure Mexico 's economy, but also the generally open and liberal shared 
attitude to trade an d investment. Today, we have more than 40 Singapore companies – both large 
and small – with project presence in Mexico. Likewise, we believe Mexican companies look to 
Singapore for similar opportunities, in particular to leverage on Singapore 's position in  the 
Southeast Asia region as a logistics and trade hub to expand operations in markets within the 
region. Notably, our future generation will have even more in common, with the opening of 
KidZania2 in Singapore in April 2016. Singapore children can now cl aim that they had a little bit of 
a Mexican experience in their childhood! In short, we are confident that there is scope for further 
strengthening of our bilateral economic relationship, including through deeper links with the Pacific 
Alliance, and also a s we explore possible pathways forward as fellow TPP parties.  
4.206.   At the WTO, we share the same DNA – a shared belief in a rules -based multilateral trading 
system, open markets and the importance of securing positive social outcomes for our people 
alongside t he pursuit of free trade. In fact, former Mexican Ambassador Fernando de Mateo was 
the Discussant f or Singapore 's TPR in July 2016.  We have, through the years, worked together 
closely in various configurations to defend the System, and to push initiatives as fellow Friends of 
the System.  
4.207.   Mexico has consistently backed up its rhetoric with action. Mexico has been active in all 
areas of WTO work, and has showed its commitment to transparency through its very good record 
of notifications. We congratulate Mexi co for its efforts to simplify and computerise its customs 
procedures through the establishment of a Digital Window. We also commend Mexico 's unilateral 
reduction of applied tariffs, primarily on agricultural products, during the review period, and note 
that Mexico 's average MFN tariff fell from  6.2% in 2012 to 5.5% in 2016. We hope that Mexico will 
also consider particip ating in further trade liberaliz ing initiatives such as the GPA and the ITA.  
4.208.   Finally, we would like to thank Ambassador Zapata and his ve ry capable team for their 
untiring efforts and commitment to the system, and for their consistently thoughtful and 
constructive contributions. We look forward to continuing our excellent cooperation with the 
Mexican delegation in working towards a successf ul MC11 in Buenos Aires, and delivering 
meaningful outcomes for the system. We wish Mexico a very successful TPR.   
CANADA  
4.209.   Our bilateral trading relationship is a model of free trade that delivers prosperity and jobs. 
In North America and beyond our shores , this model of expanding world trade has helped to raise 
hundreds of millions out of poverty. Nevertheless, anti -trade rhetoric globally has increased 
significantly in recent years and we note that Mexico has joined Canada in re -affirming its support 
to the multilateral trading system.  
4.210.   The Canada -Mexico trading relationship is extensive: bilateral  merchandise trade 
amounted to $41 billion in 2016, an increase of 7.7% over 2015. This makes Mexico Canada 's 3rd 
                                                
2 KidZan ia, founded by Mexican entrepreneur Xavier Ancona, is an indoor theme park where children 
mimic real world experiences through job role -playing. The Singapore theme park opened in Sentosa in 
April 2016.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  largest merchandise trading partner. Furthermore , Canadian direct investment in Mexico in 2015 
was $15 billion while Mexico 's direct investment in Canada totalled $1.4 billion. Canadian 
companies have a strong presence in the Mexican mining, automotive and aerospace sectors and 
now increasingly in the e nergy sector. In 2014, 1,800 Canadian enterprises were exporting to 
Mexico. Canada and Mexico do not just trade finished goods; we build products together and our 
companies invest in each other.  
4.211.   This expanding commercial relationship is also evidenced by t he number of high level visits 
to Mexico from Canada. Canada and Mexico are also close collaborators within the Pacific Alliance, 
with Canada already working on three development projects with the members of this group.  
4.212.   Mexico is demonstrating leadership a t the WTO by fully implementing its obligations under 
the Agreement on Trade Facilitation and through its commitment to promptly comply with its 
commitment to eliminate export subsidies for agricultural products. Mexico has taken steps to 
promote transpare ncy at the WTO, including by using the alternative timelines for this trade policy 
review. Mexico continues to support the WTO 's negotiating function by engaging in good faith with 
Members on how to resolve outstanding Doha issues and on how to revitalize the WTO 's 
negotiating agenda in areas such as e -commerce. Canada would encourage Mexico to go further 
and consider participation in WTO plurilaterals, particularly by joining the Information Technology 
Agreement, and by becoming an observer to the Agreemen t on Government Procurement.  
4.213.   Canada and Mexico have collaborated closely within the dispute settlement mechanisms of 
the WTO to challenge the Country of Origin Labelling regime for beef and pork imposed by the 
United States in 2008. After years of litigati on, our collaborative efforts resulted in the repeal of 
the U.S. Country of Origin Labelling regime for beef and pork.  
4.214.   Canada appreciates Mexico 's commitment to effective science -based international trade. In 
October 2016, Mexico restored access for Canadi an beef derived from animals over thirty months 
of age, as well as certain types of beef which had previously been restricted for import into Mexico. 
This restored access came following extensive bilateral technical work and discussions.  
4.215.   Given the integrat ed nature of our bilateral trade relationship, Canada closely follows 
legislative and policy developments in Mexico. I would like to highlight two areas of concern. 
Canada is the most important investor in Mexico in the mining sector, and an important inve stor in 
the energy sector. Investors need a stable and predictable business environment in order to 
succeed in any market. Given challenges faced by Canadian investors in these sectors, including 
land access, Canada encourages all levels of government in M exico to work with Canadian 
investors in resolving matters that can discourage future investment decisions. Second, Canada 
encourages Mexico to use its newly strengthened competition law to ensure transparent and fair 
allocation of slots at its internation al airport in Mexico City, to ensure tha t this process is not a 
barrier  to entry for new players in the market or a deterrent for further investment by companies 
already in Mexico.  
4.216.   In closing, Mexico is a valued partner in the multilateral trading system. We must continue 
to work to ensure that international trade and investment support inclusive economic growth in 
Mexico and around the world.  
4.217.   We have submitted written questions and await the responses. We look forward to a 
productive discussion on all aspe cts of Mexico 's trade policy.   
NEW  ZEALAND  
4.218.   Mexico has consistently been one of New Zealand 's top trading partners in Latin America, 
and as such, New Zealand takes a close interest in its t rade policy and reform agenda. 
New Zealand and Mexico share a stro ng commitment to trade liberaliz ation and regional economic 
integration, and we are currently exploring opportunities to increase trade between our two 
economies.  
4.219.   New Zealand and Mexico enjoy close collaboration acros s a range of WTO work streams. 
We welcome  Mexico 's active role in supporting a strong multilateral trading system and 
confirmation that Mexico will amend its WTO schedule in order to reflect its compliance with the WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  MC10 commitment to eliminate export subsid ies for agricultural products. We commen d Mexico 's 
active role in preparations leading up to MC10 in Nairobi, including its Chairing of the General 
Council. New Zealand also commends Mexico 's quick notification of provisions and subsequent 
ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
4.220.   New Z ealand congratulates Mexico on the wide -ranging structural reforms it has taken 
since its last trade policy review in 2013, and its commitment to implementing the reforms in a 
difficult economic environment.  New Zealand notes in particular the recent annou ncement of steps 
to remove the gove rnment subsidy on fossil fuels.  New Zealand applauds Mexico for this action 
and appreciates Mexico 's commitment to this important climate -change mitigation policy. While 
reform is never easy, Mexico has recognized that th e conditions both nationally and internationally 
provide a f avourable context for reform.  
4.221.   We congratulate Mexico on the reforms it has undertaken of subsidies to the fisheries 
sector, including fuel, which will benefit  its industry and environment. We than k Mexico for its 
responses to our questions on its remaining fisheries programmes which we also encourage Mexico 
to reform.  
4.222.   New Zealand is pleased to see that Mexico has continued to diversify its trade, and boost 
its competitiveness and integration in glo bal value chains by negotiating and implementing a 
number of tra de and investment agreements. We appreciated working closely with Mexico in the 
negotiation of the Trans Pacific Partnership and we look forward to  the further progression of 
New Zealand and M exico's trading partnership through the emerging Asia -Pacific regional trade 
architecture, and New Zealand 's engagement with the Pacific Alliance.  
4.223.   We appreciate the responses Mexico has provided to New Zealand 's questions, and would 
like to offer the follo wing observations.  
 Mexico 's steps to reduce a range of tariffs unilaterally are to be commended, but we would 
observe that further unilateral removal of tariffs could increase diversity of sources of 
supply, which could contribute to guaranteeing food secu rity. We also note that some tariffs 
remain high. For  example, while previously 234%,  the tariffs on some agricultural goods 
remain at high levels of 100%. We would be interested in any planned steps to remove or 
reduce further these tariffs.  
 New Zealand a ppreciates Mexico 's objective of guaranteeing food securi ty by increasing 
productivity. We would be interested in further explanation in support of Mexico 's assertion 
that support programmes do not lead to market distortions within the agricultural sector.  
4.224.   New Zealand thanks Mexico for its continued commitment to the multilateral trading 
system and notes our appreciation for the constructive engagement we enjoy with our Mexican 
colleagues here in Geneva. We welcome the positive steps that Mexico has taken i n reforming and 
growing its economy since its last trade policy review and look forward to further discussion of the 
issues we have raised during the course of this review.  
TURKEY  
4.225.   Mexico has become one of the most promising emerging economies with its GDP of around 
US$1.2 trillion; its place among the world 's 15 largest economies and the second largest economy 
in Latin America, after Brazil.  
4.226.   This is significant by any standard. Nevertheless, one key observation is that the economic 
activity remains largely dependent on trade with the United States. Another issue is the relatively 
slow growth at 2.1% in 2016. This is despite the fact that the economy experienced stronger 
growth in 2014 -15 through increased investment and stronger demand for Mexican exports.  
4.227.   This slowdown could be attributed to the decrease in oil production coupled with low oil 
prices. However, structural issues such as low productivity, high inequality and a large 
unregistered labour , which amounts to near half of the workforce, remain.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.228.   Indee d, Turkish and Mexican economies have more similarities than differences, and have 
gone through similar economic development processes. For instance, both countries are next to 
big markets, have a strong domestic demand, present comparable population and c onsumption 
patterns. We also have a similar manufacturing sector driven by SMEs, and we face similar 
challenges in maintaining a competitive edge. These challenges require strong will for structural 
reform. The reform process is a difficult one, neverthele ss necessary.  
4.229.   We encourage Mexico to take the necessary steps to address these structural issues. 
Efforts to diversify destinations for exports will make a difference. This will be especially important 
given the anticipated uncertainty associated with exte rnal economic dynamics and environment. 
Mexico 's firm commitment to the multilateral trading system and regional trade schemes is a clear 
advantage for diversification of markets. This advantage is reflected in Mexico 's high number of 
preferential trade ag reements.  
4.230.   While Mexico is one of the emerging countries that is most open to foreign direct 
investment, it ranks 47th in the World Bank 's 2017 "Doing Business Report ", moving down nine 
spots compared to its standing previous year.  
4.231.   Mexico 's efforts to bring  reform to the FDI regime during the review period are welcomed. 
Implementation will be key. If Mexico can further open up the economy through eliminating 
physical restrictions to the FDI, this will benefit both Mexico and its economic partners.  
4.232.   On the bil ateral side, Mexico occupies a special place for Turkey as a true partner. Our 
relations were elevated to a strategic level in 2013. Turkey and Mexico have been engaged in FTA 
negotiations since then.  
4.233.   Our bilateral trade volume, which stood around US$128 m illion in 2002, exceeded 
US$1.2  billion in 2015, a significant increase of about tenfold in 13 years. Considerable economic 
and commercial potential between our two countries remains untapped, however. Turkey keeps 
committed to deepening our economic and c ommercial ties with Mexico through our partnership.  
4.234.   Our hope is that we finalize the FTA negotiations soon. Starting direct commercial flights 
will benefit both Mexico and Turkey. The G -20 and the OECD are two other platforms where we 
continue to cooperate  and work together.  
4.235.   Turkey and Mexico, along with Indonesia, the Republic of Korea and Australia, have come 
together to establish the MIKTA initiative. MIKTA countries are all in the top 20 largest economies 
in the world. In the WTO, the MIKTA group has be en carrying out activities that aim to contribute 
to a better understanding of trade -related issues before us.  
4.236.   In terms of trade policy regime of Mexico, Turkey submitted a number of written questions 
in advance, seeking further clarification on policy dir ection and approach that also helped shape 
this intervention. We thank the Mexican delegation for the replies they provided, which will be 
examined carefully.  
4.237.   Before concluding, we would like to highlight the active and constructive role of the 
Mexican del egation, led by Ambassador Zapata, in this House. Turkey attaches great value to its 
close cooperation with Mexico and will continue to make joint efforts to achieve credible 
deliverables at the upcoming Eleventh Ministerial Conference in Latin America.  
MALAYSIA  
4.238.   At the outset, Malaysia would like to commend Mexico on its impressive economic 
achievements against the challenges faced. Being the second largest economy in South America, 
Mexico 's growth story is of continuing interest to Malaysia. In particular,  we acknowledge Mexico 's 
effort in unilaterally reduced applied tariffs during the review period. We note that the average 
MFN tariff fell from 6.2% in 2012 to 5.5% in 2016 and believe that this effort is essential in 
improving market access to all WTO Mem bers. 
4.239.   Malaysia and Mexico enjoy an increasingly robust and interlinked economic relationship. 
Bilateral trade volume reached US$2.2 billion in 2016; an increase of over 20% from the previous WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
- 36 - 
 
  year. We remain committed to improving trade flows in the coming years. At the international 
level, Malaysia and Mexico are actively involved in various platforms of developing countries such 
as within the framework of the UN, APEC and through the negotiation of Trans -Pacific Partnership 
(TPP) as we increase our efforts  in transformational reforms.  
4.240.   At the multilateral front, we commend Mexico for its steadfast support and commitment to 
the multilateral trading system. Mexico has actively participated in al l areas of negotiations and 
has diligently made constructive contr ibution in our current effort to produce concrete deliverables 
ahead of the MC11, in particular in areas of interest to developing countries. We look forward to 
working closely with Mexico to achieve this goal.  
4.241.   Malaysia looks forward to strengthening our e conomic and technical cooperation with 
Mexico, particularly in the area of halal products and aerospace industry. We also hope Mexico will 
view ASEAN and Malaysia in particular as strategic economic partner for its expansion into Asia. 
We have much to offe r and benefit from higher integration in our regional value chain.  
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.242.   Mexico is our largest trading partner in the Latin America in 2016. Our bilateral 
merchandise trade has been growing at an average annual rate of 12.2% since 2012. We have 
also recently concluded the negotiations on an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement. 
We look forward to its entry into force after completion of domestic procedures, which will certainly 
further enhance our investment flows.  
4.243.   Perhaps the most rema rkable development during this review period is that Mexico has 
embarked on a wide range of important structural reforms and new initiatives which seek not only 
to enhance its own competitiveness and productivity, but also to promote the liberaliz ation and  
facilitation of inte rnational trade and investment.  Hong Kong, China  (HKC) commends these 
efforts. Due to the breadth and depth of these reforms, it will take some time before the full 
benefits can be seen, but the fact that Mexico has achieved steady eco nomic growth in the past 
few years despite the very challenging economic environment would suggest that the strategy is 
already delivering solid results.  
4.244.   Within the WTO, we are pleased to see Mexico ratifying the Agreement on Trade 
Facilitation (the TFA) in a timely manner, and more importantly, putting all its Section I 
commitments under Category A for full implementation upon the A greement 's entering into force.  
At the same time, Mexico has simplified its customs procedures, to make the use of customs 
brokers optional and second cu stoms inspections unnecessary. The use of new technologies for 
inspecting goods is also speeding up clearance. We encourage Mexico to continue its good efforts 
in streamlining border procedures, simplifying documentation require ments and enhancing 
transparency, which are called for under the TFA.  
4.245.   We wish to commend Mexico also for unilaterally and significantly reducing its applied 
tariffs and addressing the tariff peaks on some products including animal products, bacon and 
anima l or vegetable fats and oils, etc. As a result, the average MFN tariff on agricultural products 
had decreased from 20.9% in 2012 to 14.3% in 2016.  However, it is still higher than the 4.6% 
applied on non -agricultural pr oducts. Moreover, Mexico continues to  apply special tariffs, 
compound tariffs and seasonal tariffs, as well as three kinds of tariff quotas on a nu mber of 
agricultural products. We hope to see further improvement in this area.  
4.246.   We also note with disappointment that the tariff cutting programme , which should have 
ended in 2013, is  now scheduled to end in 2019. This has delayed the liberalization of 165 lines 
relating to clothing and footwear. Besides, among the non -agricultural products, clothing, and fish 
and fish products continue to ha ve the highest average tariffs.  We encourage Mexico to further 
reduce the tariffs on these products.  
4.247.   On contingency measures, while HKC is pleased to see that Mexico has not initiated any 
safeguard measures during the review period, we note with concern the signi ficant increase in the 
use of anti -dumping measures, and the renewal of measures in the majority of cases following 
sunset reviews.  Knowing full well that remedy investigations can carry significant trade stifling 
effects, we hope Members would think twice  before initiating such proceedings; and if they really WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
- 37 - 
 
  have to resort to remedies, we urge them to refrain from any abusive and unwarranted use or 
extension of such measures.  
4.248.   Regarding trade in services, we appreciate that, as part of the structural refo rms 
mentioned before, the Mexican authorities have lifted various restrictions on foreign direct 
investment and ownership in certain sectors, such as telecommunications, broadc asting and 
financial services. We encourage Mexico to  go further in this directi on. Just as Mexico may wish to 
diversify its export markets for manufactured goods, so that it is not overly dependent on one 
single market, the country may also wish to attract investment from different parts o f the world.  
Creating a more business friendl y environment for foreign investors - not limited to those covered 
by preferential agreements - will go a long way  in achieving this objective.   
4.249.   Finally, we are grateful for Mexico 's replies to our question and look forward to continuing 
this useful dis cussion over the next two days.  We wish Mexico a very successful trade policy 
review.  
KINGDOM  OF SAUDI  ARABIA  
4.250.   The Trade Policy Review reports prepared by Mexico and the Secretariat reveal the 
resiliency of the Mexican economy, which has shown an overall stro ng performance over the 
period 2012 -2016 and a growing GDP at an annual average rate of 2.5%.  
4.251.   These positive indicators are certainly due, in part, to the economic reforms that Mexico 
has implemented since the launch of its National Development Plan for 20 13-2018.   
4.252.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia commends the government of Mexico for its ambitious 
reforms agenda in 11 different sectors, including competition policy, tax policy, and Foreign Direct 
Investment regime mainly in energy, financial services and  telecommunications sectors.  
4.253.   The efforts of Mexico in sustaining macroeconomic stability and pursuing an open and 
transparent trade and investment regime are also to be commended.  According to the World Bank 
2016 statistics, Mexico is the second largest economy in Latin America and the fifteenth largest 
economy in the World.  
4.254.   On the bilateral trade front, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Mexico enjoy friendly and 
substantive economic and trade relationship underpinned by commercial ties and supported by 
shared memb ership in the G20. The value of two -way trade between the two countries exceeded 
USS$ 350 million in 2016.  
4.255.   In January 2016, during the visit of the Mexican President in Saudi Arabia, 11 bilateral 
cooperation agreements were signed in different fields such as commerce, energy, air 
transportation, investment, education, tourism and sports.  
4.256.   Mexico has proved its commitment to support the multilateral trading system and the WTO 
and has demonstrated its desire to continue to play an active role in the promotion  of free and 
open trade.  
PERU  
4.257.   Peru and Mexico enjoy very close, longstanding trade relations. If we look at the 20th and 
21st centuries alone, we have negotiated and agreed on better conditions for our trade 
multilaterally (under the General Agreement on T ariffs and Trade (GATT) and in the WTO), 
bilaterally (under LAIA Economic Complementarity Agreement No.  8 and, subsequently, under the 
Peru Mexico Trade Integration Agreement) and, recently, plurilaterally (under the Additional 
Protocol to the Pacific Alli ance Framework Agreement, in which we have strengthened our trade 
relations with Chile and Colombia as well). The impact of such efforts can be seen in the fact that 
our annual trade has increased sixfold over the past 20 years, exceeding US$2.1 billion in  2016.  
4.258.   Our trade cooperation is not limited to these results and we continue drawing up and 
analysing proposals in the framework of the Pacific Alliance, together with Chile and Colombia, 
with a view to further liberalizing and integrating our economies so  that we can find better paths WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  towards economic development and competitiveness, as part of our countries' projection towards 
the world.  
4.259.   As many of you know, Peru has maintained, in an almost uninterrupted manner, over 4% 
growth for more than 20 years. Thi s has led to poverty reduction and the creation of opportunities 
for all Peruvians. This favourable development would not have been possible without an open 
economy policy that promotes investment, trade and, in general, free movement of economic 
factors. Similarly, this open economy policy would not have been sustainable without the common 
interests and development plans that we share with certain countries and blocks. While every 
country has the potential for economic and trade complementarity, trade agre ements that are 
predictable and advantageous for all the parties can be concluded only if the counterparts share 
the same vision, recognize the opportunities and devote time and attention to the proposals on the 
table. We would therefore like to take this opportunity to acknowledge that Mexico has, for many 
years, shown itself to be a partner open to trade opportunities, which has favoured our solid 
economic results.  
4.260.   I would also like to take this opportunity to express our concern over the recent 
emergence  of protectionist discourse on the international trade scene. Together with our Pacific 
Alliance partners, Peru and Mexico have decided to give a joint response to protectionism, a 
response that consists in continuing to seek new and further trade between us and also building 
trade bridges with other countries and blocks, near and far.  
4.261.   On the occasion of this review, we must stress how important it is that Mexico remain s 
open and continue to respect its trade commitments to the world, an effort which our Go vernment 
will also make.  
4.262.   This review has given us the opportunity to better understand Mexico's fair competition 
and trade defence system. It has also allowed the Peruvian Government to send the Mexican 
authorities some questions. We have been struck by Me xico's import licensing system, particularly 
the need to use two types of import licensing, automatic and non -automatic, for a single good in 
the textile and footwear sectors. We have asked why the reduction of tariffs affecting imports of 
textiles and foo twear has been postponed and requested information on the system of support 
provided by certain public entities to the agricultural sector, in particular the direct payments to 
farmers registered in the Agricultural Promotion Programme and the agricultural  credit guarantee 
system.  
4.263.   I welcome the timely replies that we have received, which are being carefully analysed by 
our trade authorities, and wish Mexico every success in this review.  
ARGENTINA  
4.264.   The Argentine Republic values Mexico's determination to stimu late economy growth, which 
is reflected in its programme of reforms in various sectors aimed at enhancing its competitiveness. 
The impact of such policies in sectors such as energy, financial services and telecommunications is 
clearly reflected in the coun try's current macroeconomic stability.  
4.265.   We would like to highlight Mexico's objectives in foreign trade, the priority of which is 
reaffirmation of its commitment to free trade, the mobility of capital and integrated production. 
This commitment to free trade  is confirmed by Mexico's active participation in WTO negotiations 
and in the multilateral trading system in general. Proof of this is its simplification of customs 
procedures and its unilateral reduction of applied tariffs in recent years. We hope that th ese trade 
liberalization policies will be extended to sectors of key interest to Argentina, such as agriculture, 
as its tariffs for agricultural products are still relatively high.  
4.266.   We welcome the establishment of a Mexican Digital Window for Foreign Trade as part of 
Mexico's efforts to modernize its customs procedures and provide greater transparency, both of 
which are encouraged by the WTO.  
4.267.   We highlight the confidence that markets have shown in the Mexican market, as this 
country is an important recipient of foreign direct investment. Together, the manufacturing and 
mining industries accounted for approximately 25% of GDP in 2016. We nevertheless note that WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  most foreign direct investment comes from the United States. In light of the above, we hope that 
Mexic o is able to meet its goals of deepening its regional integration, establishing new strategic 
economic agreements and deepening its various existing preferential agreements.  
4.268.   The Argentine Republic has submitted questions to Mexico regarding its trade polic ies and 
its foreign investment regime. These questions relate to, for example, the support that ProMexico 
provides to exporting enterprises or potential exporters and to the credits provided to SMEs by 
Bancomext. We welcome the Mexican Government's replies , which we will study in detail.  
4.269.   The Argentine Republic wishes to continue working with Mexico to deepen our bilateral ties 
and the integration which already exists in the areas of productive industry, services, science and 
technology, and in particular in  the area of agriculture.  
4.270.   To conclude, we reiterate how much we appreciate this renewed opportunity to exchange 
points of view and comments on Mexico's trade policies and practices and would like to draw 
attention, once again, to the importance of this exe rcise in transparency. We wish the Mexican 
authorities a successful conclusion to this review.  
THAILAND  
4.271.   With consistent and gradual bilateral trade growth during the past number of years, Mexico 
continues to be an important trade partner for Thailand. In 2 016, bilateral trade between Thailand 
and Mexico grew by 6.42% reaching a total trade value of approximately US$4 billion. Thailand 's 
exports valued at US$2.8 billion, with automobiles, machinery, electrical machinery, rubber, and 
plastic as key products. Import wise, Mexico imports merchandise from Thailand to the value of 
US$590 million. As Mexico 's export markets are highly concentrated, we view that Mexico can 
benefit from exploring possibilities to diversify its export destination.  
4.272.   We are pleased to no te that Mexico has achieved strong economic growths during the past 
five years, with an average annual growth of 2.5% during the period. There is little doubt that 
Mexico 's hard work to undertake reform programmes since 2013, to further modernize its 
econo my as well as promote trade and investment, contributed substantially to that growth. 
Thailand also commends Mexico 's continued efforts to improve its customs procedures and trade 
promotion as well as the initiative to further reform its FDI regimes.  
4.273.   Furth ermore, we are delighted to note that Mexico has substantially reduced applied tariffs 
during the review period, especially in agriculture where applied tariffs decreased from 20.9% in 
2012 to 14.3% in 2016.  
4.274.   Mexico has always been an invaluable contributor  to the WTO and we hope to continue 
working with Mexico to further strengthen the multilateral trading system.  
4.275.   In this review, Thailand submitted a number of questions to Mexico, covering the policies 
and measures of our interests such as FDI regimes, quot a allocations, and agriculture support 
programmes such as PROAGRO and PROGAN. We appreciate the prompt replies provided to our 
questions, for which we will study carefully with great interest.  
4.276.   In conclusion, Thailand would like to express its appreciation to the Mexican delegation for 
today 's presentation. We are thankful for the cooperation with Mexico in every level.  
REPUBLIC  OF MOLDOVA  
4.277.   I would like to commend the Government of Mexico and the Secretariat for their precious 
work in compiling the useful rep orts on t rade policy practices in Mexico  since its last trade policy 
review in April 2013.  
4.278.   The Republic of Moldova appreciates Mexico 's constructive role in the WTO and its active 
participation in the multilateral trading system and in the Doha Development  Agenda. We would 
also like to congratulate Mexico on its ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement in July 2016.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.279.   Since its last trade policy review, Mexico 's economic growth accelerated, with annual 
average GDP growth rate of 2.5%.This positive tre nd, together with an ambitious program me of 
reform have contributed to installing a general climate of macroeconomic stability, although 
Mexico is still facing challenges regarding wide disparity of income, rule of law and informality, and 
especially high dependence on a single market.  
4.280.   The International Monetary Fund (IMF) noted that Mexico has faced a complex global 
environment over the last year, characterized by a rise in global financial market volatility and the 
collapse of oil prices. Nonetheless, th e Fund reports that the Mexican economy has continued to 
grow at a moderate pace, and capital outflow pressures have been limited. The flexible exchange 
rate has helped the economy absorb external shocks, while inflation has remained low and stable. 
Mexico  is implementing a broad range of structural reforms, which should help lift potential growth 
over the medium term.  
4.281.   We commend the efforts undertaken by Mexico in continuing to expand its network of 
preferential trade agreements. Particularly, we note Mexi co's active participation in the FTAs, with 
four new agreements having entered into force since the previous review (Pacific Alliance, Central 
America, Panama and Peru) and the implementation of agreements with Japan and Uruguay 
having been completed. In S eptember 2016 Mexico was negotiating free trade agreements with 
Jordan, Paraguay and Turkey. There are also ongoing negotiations with Brazil, the European Union 
and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) with a view to deepening its existing agreements  
with these trading partners.  
4.282.   Along these lines, Moldova encourages Mexico to further expand its FTA network and 
economic interest towards Central and Eastern European countries.  
4.283.   These developments underline the foreign trade objectives reaffirmed by Mexi co in its 
2013-2018 National Development Plan, and mainly that of deepening the policy of trade 
liberalization and promoting Mexico 's integration in the region. We encourage Mexico to continue 
the implementation of the Development Plan, as well as prioriti zing multilateralism in its trade 
policies, particularly in the current political and economic panorama that could hamper Mexican 
growth and impact Mexican exports.  
4.284.   As regards participation in the WTO plurilateral agreements, Moldova encourages Mexico to 
become member of the Agreement on Government Procurement and Information Technology 
Agreement (ITA) especially in the context where the major reforms undertaken in the 
telecommunications sector under the new Federal Telecommunications and Broadcasting Law 
which entered into force, the FDI will increase and the Mexican trade policy will boost its 
competitiveness and improve its service quality in order to strengthen further its position in the 
multilateral trading system.  
4.285.   We note with satisfaction the importa nt development undertaken by Mexico to simplify 
customs procedures and promote trade through the establishment of the Mexican Digital Window 
for Foreign Trade and abolition of the requirement to use the services of a customs broker. 
Computerization of cust oms procedures and the use of new technologies for inspecting goods will 
facilitate and boost trade. We also commend Mexico on the improvement of its trademarks 
registration regime, with the possibility of publishing both registrations granted and applicat ions, 
as well as the efforts made to strengthen enforcement of IPR at the border and within Mexico.  
4.286.   The Republic of Moldova has a ddressed 4 questions regarding p aragraphs 1.0, 2.46, 3. 50 
and 4.20 of the Secretariat r eport, particularly regarding:  
 the modal ities of estimating prices as reference for the customs valuation of goods and their 
compatibility with the WTO provisions;  
 the conditions applicable to foreign participation in the Mexican companies for purchase of 
land to be used for non -residential act ivities, such as agricultural purposes ; 
 the new exporter procedures introduced under the LCE reform ; 
 the compatibility of the SAGARPA program with WTO subsidies rules . 
4.287.   We appreciate the responses provided by the Mexican delegation in due time.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.288.   On the bilat eral level, the volume of trade between Moldova and Mexico has been modest, 
yet steady in 2014 -2016, exports accounting for US$23.93 mil lion in 2016 and imports for 
US$3.35 million . 
4.289.   Moldova is ready to work with Mexico, with a view to expand export of Mold ovan products 
to the Mexican market and vice versa. While geographical distance may explain the modest trade 
flows between our countries, we would like to seize the opportunity of being close neighbours at 
the negotiating table of the WTO in order to deepe n our trade relations.  
4.290.   We are convinced that there is still a great potential to be explored in the fields of bilateral 
trade and investments.  
4.291.   Particularly, we believe that there is an opportunity, which has not been yet capitalized, 
related to the expansi on of our bilateral agreements, especially a Bilateral Trade Treaty, and 
Economic Cooperation Agreement, as well as the Agreement to Encourage Investments and 
Avoidance of Double Taxation. Moldova is ready to enter into bilateral negotiations on these 
important legal documents.  
4.292.   The Republic of Moldova is confident that the 6th exercise of the trade policy review will 
help Mexico to achieve its economic objectives and fully hono ur its international commitments.  
4.293.   We look forward to continue further strengtheni ng our bilateral relations with Mexico and, 
the Delegation of the Republic of Moldova wishes the Mexican Delegation the utmost success 
during the sixth WTO Trade Policy Review Cycle.  
MONTENEGRO  
4.294.   Montenegro would like to associate itself with the statement d elivered on behalf of the 
European Union.  
4.295.   Montenegro wishes to draw Members attention to the positive reports of the Secretariat 
that Mexico 's economic growth has a ccelerated over the period 2012 –2016.  According to the 
Secretariat, GDP grew at an annual av erage rate of 2.5% while per capita GDP rose to 
approximately US$10,000 . Given the volatility of external economic climate in recent years, these 
are impressive statistics. Diversification of domestic economy remains a challenge for Mexico but 
the vision, the strategy and the results of its Government clearly indicate that Mexico is well 
equipped to face it and to further stabilize and modernise its economy.  
4.296.   In light of this, Montenegro commends the Government of Mexico 's introduction of an 
ambitious progr amme of reforms in 2013, across 11 different sectors with wide -ranging and 
positive effects. For instance, the Secretariat reports that Mexico 's tax reform programme has 
provided for a review of taxation in order to improve tax collection, with a number of  key changes 
to the tax system. During the period under review, Mexico continued the efforts from previous 
years to simplify customs procedures and promote trade. It is worth to notice that the most 
important development since the previous review with resp ect to export requirements has been 
the computerization of customs procedures with the use of the Digital Window. In order to 
increase investment flows and boost the country 's competitiveness, Mexico adopted a series of 
reforms of its FDI regime during the  review period, and continues to attract significant amount of 
FDI, particularly into telecommunication, energy, insurance and the manufacturing sectors. 
Montenegro considers that these ambitious, but well planned reforms are important if Mexico 's 
economic  success is to continue.  
4.297.   Montenegro appreciates the Government of Mexico 's commitment to the multilateral 
trading system, as well as the extent to which Mexico is continuing to develop its trading 
relationships. As the Government of Mexico itself notes in  its report, the positive relationship 
between international trade and development has been demonstrated repeatedly. The foreign 
trade objectives are set out in the National Development Plan for 2013 -2018 with the aim to 
reaffirm Mexico 's commitment to fre e trade. Deep trading relationships based on FTAs such as 
those th at Mexico has with 46 countries  (among others) the US, EU, Brazil, Argentina as well as 
partnership within Pacific Alliance and beyond are vital for the economic prosperity.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.298.   Mexico has been an important WTO M ember and very active and constructive partner in 
the overall work of the WTO. My d elegation would like to congratulate Mexico on ratification of the 
TFA. In agreements with other delegations, we would like to use this opportunity to enco urage the 
Government of Mexico to engage in participating to the WTO 's plurilateral agreements - the 
Agreement on Trade in Civil Aircraft, the Agreement on Government Procurement and the 
Information Technology Agreement, in order to benefit from the free t rade arrangements in these 
important sectors.  
4.299.   Bilateral relations between Montenegro and Mexico are evolving in positive direction with 
the increase in overall bilateral trade and strong diplomatic efforts to establish the base for more 
robust cooperation  between our two countries. This includes the most recent visit of Pro Mexico 
that promotes international trade and investments and Mexican Business Council for foreign trade 
(COMCE) to Montenegro that resulted in signing of two Cooperation Agreements with  our Chamber 
of Commerce and Investment Agency. Some sectors of the possible cooperation have been already 
identified namely food industry and renewable energy. In addition, my Government is ready to 
engage with the Government of Mexico on the offer that o ur side initially sent in 2016 regarding 
bilateral agreements for economic partnership and for cooperation in the field of science and 
technology. Montenegro would like to use this opportunity to convey to the Government of Mexico 
its strong interest for R eciprocal Visa Exemption Arrangements since Mexican nationals are already 
exempt from the visa requirements traveling to Montenegro. We are convinced that these steps 
and efforts will further benefit our business communities and facilitate strengthening of  already 
excellent relations between our two countries.  
4.300.   In conclusion, Montenegro is looking forward to continuing constructive engagement with 
Mexico in Geneva and my distinguished colleague Ambassador Roberto Zapata and his impressive 
team whose hard wor k and contribution is greatly appreciated by all Members in this house. We 
wish Mexico every success in its sixth Trade Policy Review.  
SRI LANKA  
4.301.   My delegation notes with interest the achievement of Mexico 's economy over the review 
period. Mexico 's economi c growth accelerated over the period 2012 -2016 and accounted for an 
annual average GDP growth of 2.5%, while contributing to per capita GDP raises approximately 
US$10,000.  
4.302.   Further, we noted Mexico 's policy developments includi ng 2013 ambitious reforms in 
11 different sectors such as competition policy, tax policy, energy, financial services and 
telecommunications , etc. My delegation wishes Mexico may ac hieve its three main objectives: 
(a) raise the productivity in order to trigger economic growth and develo pment, (b) strengthen 
and broaden rights so that they become embedded in daily life, and (c) strengthen and enhance 
the rule of democracy and fundamental freedoms in the country through these reforms.  
4.303.   It is also interesting to note that the high degree of predictability in Mexico 's import duty 
lowering its protectionism. Mexico has substantially and unilaterally reduced applied tariffs during 
the review period; the average MFN tariff fell from 6. 2% in 2012 to 5.5% in 2016. In the 
agriculture sector , tariffs  have fallen from 20.9% in 2012 to 14.3% in 2016. Non -agricultural 
products are subject to a lower average tariff of 4.6%, which has not varied during the review 
period. The zero rates are applied to 58.1% of tariff lines.  
4.304.   In addition, we no ted during the  period of review that  Mexico continued the reform efforts 
of previous years to simplify customs procedures and promote trade with the key reforms s uch as  
the establishment of the Mexican Digital Window for Foreign Trade and the use of new 
technologies for  inspecting goods has been boosted and it is now possible to rectify the import 
declaration at any stage of customs clearance.  
4.305.   Let me briefly reflect on the bilateral trade relations between two countries. The total t rade 
turnover which stood at US$62.87 million in 2010 has increased to US$145.05 m illion in 2016 
registering the significant increase by 131%. Sri Lanka has continuously enjoyed favourable 
balance of trade during last 15 years. Mexico is the 19th largest market destination for Sri Lankan 
produ cts and the 56th largest supplier to Sri Lanka. Export of Ceylon Cinnamon to Mexico has 
become dominant which accounted for 52% of Sri Lankan exports to Mexico in 2016. Automatic WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  data processing machines is the top most importing item to Sri Lanka from Mex ico and which 
accounted for 10% of the total imports in 2016.  
4.306.   Both Sri Lanka and Mexico are members of the Agreement on the Global System of Trade 
Preferences (GSTP) among the developing countries which came in to force in 1989. Under the 
above Agreement, the main export item from Sri Lanka to Mexico is also Ceylon cinnamon.   
4.307.   In the multilateral front, my delegation appreciates Mexico 's highly valued contribution to 
the multilateral trading system and its active engagement in the negotiations in the WTO. T he 
dynamic role played by His Excellency the Ambassador Roberto Zapata Barradas and his team in 
Geneva in proactively engaging in ongoing activities of WTO is highly commendable.  
COSTA  RICA 
4.308.   The history of Costa Rica has always been intertwined with that of  Mexico. As far back as 
the pre -Hispanic era, our potters from Guaitil sold their dark pottery to the Toltec lords of Tula; 
and influenced by Mexico's process of independence, Costa Rica finally achieved independence on 
15 September 1821. Although the 20th century took us by surprise, fortunately, we found guidance 
in a renewed cultural and artistic exchange. How many Costa Ricans have been educated under 
the tutelage of the Vasconcelos educational system! How many students have admired the 
paintings of Die go Rivera, Frida Kahlo or the murals of Siqueiros and Orozco!  
4.309.   Today our peoples share strong ties of trade and friendship. Our similarities have brought 
us closer and our differences have enriched us, enabling us to forge a strong and lasting trade 
allianc e, based on shared development policies, experiences and visions. Costa Rica sees in Mexico 
a Member that has proved to be committed to the multilateral trading system and has always 
shown a constructive and willing attitude to dialogue. We both place grea t value on foreign trade 
as a tool for generating opportunities and exchanging knowledge. We both work hard to promote 
the integration of our economies into global value chains and to further attract foreign direct 
investment. We have both identified the g rowing importance of the services sector in the global 
economy as an opportunity to be tapped. We both believe that climate change poses a threat to 
the future of humanity; and as members of the Friends of E -commerce for Development group, we 
both share an  interest in the potential of e -commerce to close development gaps.  
4.310.   It is telling that Costa Rica's first free trade agreement was with Mexico. During the 
last decade, bilateral trade has grown at an average rate of 5% per year: Costa Rica is now 
Mexico's second largest partner in Central America, while Mexico is one of Costa Rica's main 
investors. As a result of this closeness, we have managed to expand and diversify trade, facilitate 
the cross -border movement of goods and services and increase investment opportunities between 
our countries.  
4.311.   At the same time, we must recognize that Mexico is facing significant challenges. The 
country still has to find a balance that enables it to reduce social and economic inequality; 
strengthen its institutions; fight the scourge of violence and insecurity; and continue its market 
and product diversification policy. Costa Rica is no stranger to these challenges, and we are aware 
of the need to work together to address regional challenges. This is why we wish to recognize th e 
fundamental role played by Mexico in developing joint initiatives such as the Tuxtla Mechanism for 
Dialogue and Concerted Action, as well as the Mesoamerica Integration and Development Project 
and the Mesoamerican Cooperation Programme.  
4.312.   Although Costa Ri ca has not submitted any questions on this occasion, we have an ongoing 
interest in the trade policies of a partner as close and important as Mexico, and in particular in the 
development of its policies to diversify production, attract investment and promo te regional 
integration. We are also struck by the energetic reform that has been carried out by Mexico, which 
incorporates the environmental cost of fossil fuel consumption and shows indisputable global 
leadership in climate action. In that regard, we wel come the replies provided by Mexico during this 
review.  
4.313.   I would like to conclude by wishing the Mexican delegation every success in this trade 
policy review and closing with the following quote from Montesquieu: "Peace is a natural effect of WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  trade". In a w orld of growing uncertainty surrounding trade, this is a reminder of the importance of 
maintaining a strong and effective multilateral trading system as a tool for bringing about peace.  
PHILIPPINES  
4.314.   The Philippines and Mexico have longstanding historical, c ultural and economic ties. 
Philippines -Mexico economic relations date back to more than 400 years, with the Manila -Acapulco 
Galleon Trade beginning the two -way exchange of goods between the two countries. The Galleon 
Trade was the longest shipping lane in history, which ran for 250 years from 1565 to 1815 and 
transformed the then Philippine colony into a regional center of trade in Southeast Asia.  
4.315.   Today, Mexico is the Philippines ' second largest trading partner in Latin America and its 
25th largest trading  partner in the world, with Philippine exports to Mexico increasing by more 
than 30% from 2015 to 2016. Among the top exports to Mexico include semiconductor devices, 
digital monolithic integrated circuits, and storage units.  
4.316.   The Philippines notes that Mex ico is undergoing an ambitious and far -reaching process of 
structural reforms in key sectors of its economy, including energy, telecommunications, economic 
competition, taxation and finance. Mexico also continues to work on increasing its competitiveness 
and integration in global value chains by negotiating, formalizing, and administering many 
international trade and investment agreements.  
4.317.   The Philippines looks forward to further strengthening its bilateral trade and investment 
relations with Mexico through  the timely establishment of a Joint Economic Committee (JEC) 
between our two countries. The JEC aims to invigorate Philippine -Mexico bilateral trade relations 
and pave the way for closer economic cooperation in various areas of mutual interest.  
4.318.   In closin g, the Philippines would like to congratulate Undersecretary Juan Carlos Baker, 
Ambassador Roberto Zapata, and their delegation from Mexico and in Geneva for its 6th trade 
policy review. Our appreciation also goes to H.E. Mr. Gustavo Vanerio of Uruguay for  his insightful 
comments as discussant and to the Secretariat for preparing a comprehensive report.  
PANAMA  
4.319.   Panama and Mexico have woven strong ties of fraternity and maintain sound diplomatic, 
economic and trade relations. The latter were consolidated with  the signing of a Partial Scope 
Agreement in 1985 and strengthened under a Free Trade Agreement between the two countries, 
which entered into force for Panama in 2015. The agreements provide for a tariff reduction 
process, to be completed in 2029, when 93. 5% of items will be duty free.  
4.320.   These agreements as well as memorandums of understanding on a variety of subjects 
foster market access, increase trade flows, enhance investment conditions and ensure more 
efficient protection of property rights. This is evid enced by a 10.2% increase in trade between 
2012 and 2016, a period during which Panama's exports and imports to and from Mexico rose by 
22% and 10.1%, respectively.  
4.321.   Mexico is the seventh largest user of the Panama Canal and the fourth largest supplier of 
goods to the Colón Free Zone. Panama's leading exports to Mexico include edible bovine offal, 
fish meal, medicines, palm oil, aluminium waste, pineapples and papayas.  
4.322.   The Secretariat report points to a 2.5% increase in Mexico's GDP. The report also 
highligh ts the introduction of a trade reform programme with a view to boosting productivity in 
strategic areas such as financial services, telecommunications and energy. It also emphasizes the 
implementation of measures aimed at promoting, furthering and deepenin g trade liberalization and 
promoting Mexico's integration in the region by means of initiatives such as the National 
Development Plan 2013 -2018.  
4.323.   Panama takes special note of the initiatives implemented by Mexico to promote investment 
and boost competitiven ess. There are more than 20 Mexican -owned transnational corporations in 
various Panamanian production sectors, such as Cementos de México, Coca Cola/FEMSA, Claro, 
Grupo Elektra, Banco Azteca, Sanbors and Grupo Bimbo. In 2015, Mexico's foreign direct WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  invest ment (FDI) stock in Panama amounted to US$1,608 million, representing an increase of 
16.2%. Panama's total FDI in Mexico came to US$1,049  million.  
4.324.   The report confirms that Mexico maintains major restrictions on FDI in sectors such as 
electricity distributi on, air and maritime transport and port services. These sectors are fairly 
restricted and in some cases are closed to foreign participation or subject to strict immigration 
requirements.  
4.325.   Mexico has also taken important initiatives in terms of trade facilit ation. We would 
specifically mention the computerization of export procedures using the Digital Window and the 
establishment of the "FAST" tracks available in certain customs offices.  
4.326.   There is unquestionably further room for improvement and it will be impo rtant for Mexico 
to overcome the challenges identified in the Secretariat's and its own reports, and in the 
comments made by Members. Panama will closely follow positive developments in the financial 
services and insurances sectors, where conditions of acc ess and competition can be improved 
significantly to reduce their high levels of concentration.  
4.327.   To conclude, we congratulate Mexico for its commitment to and participation in the 
multilateral trading system and its role in the trade negotiations, as eviden ced by the excellent 
work of its Permanent Mission to the WTO.  
PARAGUAY  
4.328.   As stated in the report, the Mexican economy has sound macroeconomic fundamentals 
despite the uncertainty of the world economic outlook.  
4.329.   Confidence in Mexico's economy has led to a 33%  increase in FDI, as a result of 
responsible fiscal and monetary policies, sound risk management, proper debt management and 
adequate international reserves, among other factors.  
4.330.   Despite the slowdown in international trade during the review period, Mexico' s total trade 
increased by 10.8% to US$776  billion. Growth was particularly significant in the services sector, 
where exports rose by 47% over the same period.  
4.331.   The Government responded to a complex state of affairs with an interesting package of 
structural  reforms: the energy reform, transforming the Mexican hydrocarbons industry and the 
activities of the National Electricity System; and the economic competition reform, aimed at 
ensuring free competition and preventing, investigating and combating monopolie s and 
monopolistic practices through the amendment of Article 28 of the Constitution, the introduction of 
two new national agencies, the appointment of an internal comptroller and specialized tribunals, 
not to mention the new Federal Law on Economic Compet ition. 
4.332.   We were also pleased to note the transparency reform, the telecommunications and 
broadcasting reform, the tax reform, the financial reform, which seeks to provide more credit and 
make the latter more accessible, especially to SMEs, by encouraging co mpetition in the financial 
sector, the labour reform and the reform aimed at providing comprehensive, inclusive and 
high-quality education.  
4.333.   In spite of these favourable developments, there are still major challenges to address. We 
highlight the substantial  reduction in Mexico's tariffs on agricultural products from 20.9% in 2012 
to 14.3% in 2016. On the other hand, we regret that the average tariff on agricultural products, 
specifically on sugar and sugar confectionery and animals and animal products, is st ill considerably 
higher than that applied to non -agricultural products. As stated by the discussant, tariffs on beef 
remain very high.  
4.334.   Economic, political, social and cultural relations between Mexico and Paraguay have always 
been quite dynamic and friendl y. Our trade is significant, albeit far below potential. During the 
period under review, annual trade was worth over US$250  million. Paraguay's leading exports 
included soybean, hides, pharmaceuticals and tobacco, while imports from Mexico consisted of 
vehicles and tractors, machinery, synthetic products and, naturally, malt beer. Nonetheless, WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  Paraguay's main exports today are, we believe, in Toluca, Puebla, Chivas de Guadalajara, and, of 
course, las Águilas de la América.  
4.335.   Mexico has a framework free trade agreement with MERCOSUR, but unfortunately 
Paraguay is the only country that has not closed its bilateral chapter; we hope to soon reach an 
agreement that will benefit both Paraguayan and Mexican consumers, companies and industries. 
During an official Para guayan visit to Mexico last August, our two Presidents announced the revival 
of bilateral relations with a view to consolidating a strategic alliance.  
4.336.   To conclude, it is worth pointing out that Paraguay and Mexico share the same views 
regarding the need to  strengthen the multilateral trading system, as well as a firm determination 
to secure tangible results at the next Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires.  
4.337.   I would like to offer renewed congratulations to those leading this review and to the 
delegates from  the Permanent Mission of Mexico in Geneva for their invariably active involvement 
in the different areas of the WTO's work.  
BENIN 
4.338.   The delegation of Benin would like to pay tribute to Mexico's efforts since the previous 
review in 2013 despite the uncertain  global economic situation.  
4.339.   The sound economic fundamentals of the Mexican economy, that is, fiscal strength,  
responsible debt management, cautious risk management, a  banking system with almost 
15% capitalization, stable inflation, and a lower unemployment  rate, have contributed to average 
GDP growth assessed at 3% over the period covered by this sixth trade policy review, i.e. double 
the rate in the previous review period.  
4.340.   Also worthy of mention are the positive trends in external trade, reflected by a 10%  and a 
1.5% annual increase in export and import value, respectively, over the period under review.  
4.341.   The various structural reforms introduced by Mexico, such as the energy reform, the 
competition reform and the tax reform aimed, among other things, at redu cing the dependence of 
public finances on oil, have helped increase the country's economic and trade performance.  
4.342.   As regards multilateral trade, Mexico's strategy is based on five pillars that contribute to 
enhancing the multilateral trade negotiations.  
4.343.   The delegation of Benin welcomes the key role played by Mexico and its major contribution 
to the work done in the Doha Round multilateral trade negotiations. It also highlights the historic 
and dynamic part that Mexico has taken and continues to take in buil ding Central and 
South  American regional integration.  
4.344.   The delegation of Benin is grateful to Mexico for its constructive support to LDCs, 
promoting their interests and priorities in the ongoing Doha Round negotiations.  
4.345.   It also welcomes the cooperative ties  between Benin and Mexico, which have led to cultural 
exchanges and invaluable assistance from Mexico in implementing economic and social projects 
and programmes.  
4.346.   The delegation of Benin hopes that Mexico's efforts, initiatives and reforms in an economic 
environment marred by external factors, such as the production slowdown in its immediate 
neighbours and strategic trading partners and the continuing drop in oil prices, will yield results in 
support of sustainable and inclusive development in the short, me dium and long term.  
URUGUAY  
4.347.   Our country has historically maintained friendly and constructive relations with Mexico in 
the various spheres covered by our bilateral relationship, which include not only policy, the 
economy and trade, but also cooperation and  culture.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.348.   Since the previous review of Mexico's trade policy, we have been working to strengthen 
political and commercial relations between Uruguay and Mexico.  
4.349.   At the fifth meeting last September of the Administrative Commission overseeing the Free 
Trade A greement between Uruguay and Mexico, the two countries agreed to deepen and update 
the agreement.  
4.350.   The Terms of Reference that are to govern the negotiation and definition of the new 
agreement were signed in late March  2017.  
4.351.   The essential principles of thes e negotiations will be as follows: to reach an ambitious, 
comprehensive and balanced agreement; to ensure WTO consistency of the new commitments 
under a "single undertaking" approach; and to maintain or improve WTO -plus disciplines and 
introduce WTO -X disc iplines.  
4.352.   It is worth mentioning the nine chapters to be included in the new agreement: Trade 
Facilitation, Electronic Commerce, Cooperation, Regulatory  Coherence, Environment, Labour 
Standards, Trade and Gender, Transparency, and Anti -Corruption.  
4.353.   Uruguay's  overriding goal is to achieve a state -of-the-art agreement with Mexico, paving 
the way to a free trade area.  
4.354.   As regards bilateral trade under the current Free Trade Agreement, a variety of products 
are given fixed tariff preferences, which in most cases h ave been set at 28%.  
4.355.   The main tariff items cover, inter alia , live animals, edible offal, frozen fish, fruit, cereals 
(rye, oats), unroasted malt, olive oil, wine and other alcoholic beverages, and broken rice. Sheep 
meat is subject to a fixed preferential  tariff of 30%, with an applied rate of 5.2%.  
4.356.   Among the trade agreements in force, we would highlight the Mexico -Uruguay Free Trade 
Agreement and Economic Complementarity Agreement No.  55 (ACE 55) on the automotive sector, 
concluded between the States part y to MERCOSUR and Mexico.  
4.357.   Mexico has a large number of preferential agreements and free trade agreements with 
Chile, Colombia, EFTA, Israel, Japan, Panama, Peru and Uruguay. This provides a trade 
liberalization background on which Uruguay intends to draw w ith a view to the new free trade 
agreement, primarily seeking to achieve the level of openness bound in the Pacific Alliance 
Agreement.  
4.358.   In 2016, trade between Uruguay and Mexico, taking into account free zone exports, 
yielded a US$141  million surplus in fa vour of Uruguay.  
4.359.   Free-zone exports to Mexico are of particular importance to Uruguay; if they were to be 
discounted, Uruguay would run a deficit of the order of US$31  million in its balance of trade with 
Mexico.  
4.360.   The total value of exports to Mexico decline d from US$373  million in 2015 to 
US$338  million in 2016.  
4.361.   Uruguay's exports to Mexico in 2016 consisted almost entirely of food products and 
agricultural inputs. Its leading exports included food products; hides and skins; milk and dairy 
products; cereals; wood, wood charcoal and articles of wood; wool; and meat and edible offal.  
4.362.   Lastly, we would like to reaffirm our two countries' interest in joining forces in the quest for 
a positive outcome at MC11 and to protect the multilateral trading system based on p redictable, 
transparent and balanced rules  
RUSSIAN  FEDERATION  
4.363.   We are pleased to participate in this TPR and we are sure that it would contribute 
significantly to the trade transparency of Mexico.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.364.   The Russian Federation follows with great interest the econo mic performance of Mexico. 
The continuous growth of its economy, with an average annual rate of 2.5%, enables us to give an 
overall positive assessment of the economic policies pursued by this country. The ambitious 
programme of reforms, which was launched  by the Government of Mexico in 2013, has greatly 
contributed to this performance.  
4.365.   Diplomatic relations between Russian and Mexico were established as far back as in 1890. 
However, our bilateral economic cooperation has considerably strengthened only durin g the last 
decade. Despite global economic instability, the growth rates of Russia 's trade with Mexico were 
the highest among all the Latin American countries in recent years. According to our data, in 2016, 
the total trade turnover increased by 8% compare d to 2015 and amounted to US$1,706 million. 
Russia 's export grew by 7.2% (US$1,061 million) and our imports from Mexico increased by 9.4% 
(US$644 million).  
4.366.   The main products of Russia 's exports to Mexico are metals and articles thereof (76%), 
chemicals (10 %), agricultural goods (8%), machinery and equipment (2.4%), wood and paper 
(1.5%).  
4.367.   Russia imports from Mexico mostly machinery and equipment (73%), agricultural goods 
and food products (10%), metals (7.7%) and chemicals (5.6%).  
4.368.   One of the most prominent e xamples of our bilateral cooperation is the supply of Russian 
regional airplanes "Sukhoi Superjet 100 " to the Mexican company "Interjet ". Initially, the contract 
envisaged the construction and delivery of 20 planes, but later it was increased to 30 jets. A s of 
2016, 22 airplanes have actually been delivered to the Mexican side.  
4.369.   I would also like to point out close cooperation between our countries in other international 
for a. Our positions are rather close  within the G20 on issues such as reforms of the in ternational 
financial institutions and global financial system. Needless to mention regional cooperation within 
the APEC Forum.  
4.370.   Mexico is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Russia. We welcome the fact 
that tourist visas can be requested a nd obtained online.  
4.371.   During this TPR, the Russian delegation has not addressed any written questions to Mexico. 
Should the need arise we will be ready to discuss bilaterally.  
4.372.   To conclude, we look forward to work with the authorities of Mexico in order to ex pand our 
trade and investment ties for mutual benefit. We wish the delegation of Mexico a successful trade 
policy review.  
PAKISTAN  
4.373.   Pakistan is deeply appreciative of Mexico 's positive role in the Multilateral Trading System.  
4.374.   Pakistan finds it commendable,  that Mexico 's economic growth remained reasonably high, 
despite overall global recessionary period with GDP growing at an annual average rate of 2.5%, 
while per capita GDP rose to nearly US$10,000. Inflation remained under control, within a range of 
2% to  4% annually.  
4.375.   It is encouraging to note that the reforms program me introduced by Mexico have yielded 
positive results, with the most important of them being the tax reform program me. The measures 
adopted led to growth in tax revenue, from 9.7% of GDP in 2 013 to 13.1% in 2015. This is a 
remarkable achievement and we believe that the practices adopted be shared with other WTO 
Members, struggling to achieve growth in revenues. The current account deficit remained 
moderate, albeit growing slowly.  
4.376.   Mexico remain s a vibrant and open economy. It receives a large amount of foreign direct 
investment (FDI). In 2015, FDI inflows amounted to US$32 billion, while for the first nine months 
of 2016 they totalled  US$19 billion. Even though Investment is not in short supply,  but it is 
admirable that Mexico has adopted a series of reforms to the FDI regime during the review period, WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  mainly affecting telecommunications and broadcasting, as well as the financial and energy sectors, 
to enhance investment. Mexico made further chang es into its Competition Policy to bring more 
vitality into the market forces and continues to make efforts to strengthen enforcement of 
intellectual property rights, both at the border and within Mexico.  
4.377.   During the period under review, Mexico continued the  reform efforts of previous years to 
simplify customs procedures and promote trade. The key reforms were: establishment of the 
Mexican Digital Window for Foreign Trade (Digital Window) and abolition of the requirement to use 
the services of a customs broke r. The use of new technologies for inspecting goods has been 
boosted and it is now possible to rectify the import declaration at any stage of customs clearance.  
4.378.   At WTO, Mexico delegation has played a very dynamic role first under Ambassador 
Fernando and n ow under the leadership of Ambassador Roberto Zap ata.  
4.379.   Pakistan greatly appreciates the role of Mexico in MIKTA and Friends of E -Commerce for 
development.  
ISRAEL  
4.380.   Mexico is one of Israel 's most valued trading partners. In 2017 we are very pleased with 
marki ng the 65th anniversary of our solid history of friendship and cooperation being in such a 
good state in our bilateral economic relation. Since the signing of the free trade agreement 
between Israel and Mexico in 2000, and its upgrade in 2010, trade has gr own in 300%, peaking at 
over US $700 million in 2014 and maintaining an average of US $580 during the period under 
review. We are happy to keep a positive outlook for further mutual development. Yet, considering 
the complementarities of our economies, there is still more to do for the realization of the inherent 
trade potential between our two countries.  
4.381.   Mexico exports to Israel oil and chemical products, agricultural products, various 
manufactures and electronics. Among Israel 's exports to Mexico we have hig h-tech agricultural 
machinery and water technology, pesticides and fertilizers, security, and electronic and medical 
devices.  
4.382.   Israel and Mexico enjoy of a good infrastructure of agreements complementary to their 
FTA, including agreements between export ins titutes and industrial associations, a customs 
cooperation agreement, a double taxation agreement, and an agreement for cooperation in 
tourism. In addition, since the last review, an agreement for cooperation in industrial R&D was 
signed in December 2014 b etween Israel 's MATIMOP (the Authority for Innovation) and the 
Mexican National Commission of Science and Technology - CONACYT.  
4.383.   With its deep network of preferential trade agreements, Mexico remains a trade -oriented, 
modern and open economy enmeshed in hig h-value value chains, with a mature manufacturing, 
assembly, and services industry. Mexico is also an experienced and important oil -producing and 
exporting country with significant oil and gas reserves. Nonetheless, the need to diversify its 
economy and pa rticularly its exports further, as well as to liberaliz e some aspects of its financial 
services sector remain s an observation in this TPR.  
4.384.   Despite suffering significantly with the global financial crisis and other subsequent regional 
and sectoral shocks -- notably, the international prices of oil -- Mexico returned to the path of 
growth reporting a 2.5% growth in 2015 and 1.9% in 2016, respectively. Albeit moderate, and 
against a backdrop of current account defi cit amounting to 2.9% in 2015, Mexico 's growth  has 
been achieved while substantially reducing tariffs further and implementing trade facilitating 
measures. This in our opinion sets an excel lent example. In fact, Mexico - and I should mention 
Israel too - are among the few countries that have undergone  substantive unilateral liberaliz ation 
in these trying times.  
4.385.   We note with interest the important task Mexico has undertaken since its last TPR in 
relation to the implementation of ambitious structural reforms in important sectors of the 
economy, inter ali a, in competition policy, tax policy, and importantly in energy and 
telecommunications. We regard this as very positive step towards competitiveness and enhanced 
competition. On this point, we note with interest the changes in the Foreign Investment Law WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  eliminating foreign shareholding restrictions in particular in the energy sector, and serious efforts 
towards reducing concentration in telecommunications.  
4.386.   Mexico has remained a main recipient of large amounts of FDI during the period u nder 
review reaching a lmost US $33 billion in 2015, and continue s to project a positive trend. We can 
illustrate this attractiveness, by noting that in 2016 Israeli investmen t in Mexico reached almost 
US$3 billion in ventures mainly in the services and pharmaceutical industry. A t this point, we 
would like to convey the longstanding concern in our industry related to excessively long 
processing times for registration and burdensome licensing requirements for medicines and 
medical devices.  
4.387.   Although we did not submit any specific qu estion, we are interested in Mexico 's responses 
to various questions relating to the implementation of its far -reaching structural reforms. Pursuant 
to observations of Israeli businesses operating in Mexico, we are particularly interested in 
understanding better the implementation of the tax reforms in relation to transparency and 
predictability of customs -associated fees and when are due, also of refunds. On tariffs, we are 
interested in Mexico 's responses to questions related to varying calculations of ad  valorem and 
compound tariffs reported by some of our operators.  
4.388.   We would like to take this opportunity to commend Mexico on being a firm advocate of 
open markets and being for keeping protectionism at bay. We would also like to commend Mexico 
for the acti ve role it plays in the multilateral system and in advancing multilateral negotiations, we 
look forward to continue cooperation on issues of mutual interest and towards achieving 
meaningful results in MC11. On the plurilateral front, Israel has been a part ner with Mexico in the 
negotiations of the Trade in Services Agreemen t, and we share with other WTO M embers the 
desire to see Mexico sitting on the table as a member of the ITA Expansion Agreement and the 
Government Procurement Agreement. We think it both makes sense in Mexico 's efforts towards 
improving competition, and also for the global market.  
4.389.   I would like to conclude wishing Mexico every success in its process of economic reform 
and in this 6th trade policy review.  
HONDURAS  
4.390.   Our bilateral relations ha ve been marked by more than 137 years of diplomatic relations. 
This was evidenced by our President's visit to Mexico City, where a number of issues were 
reviewed, such as the 2016 Programme for the Economic Development of Honduras, as well as the 
Bilateral  Cooperation Programme 2016 -2017, which encompasses ten projects in the agricultural, 
environmental, security and health spheres, among others.  
4.391.   Mexico and Honduras share a number of common goals, such as promoting our countries' 
social welfare and economic  development as the key solutions to common issues such as poverty, 
marginalization, inequality and human capital loss due to migration, and for reasons that include 
cultural identity, geographical proximity, common historical roots, economic complementari ty and 
shared development and integration aspirations, which are a foreign policy priority for both 
parties.  
4.392.   Our two countries are thus seeking to strengthen their consultation mechanisms and 
promote a broad -based dialogue with a view to establishing bilat eral mechanisms to address 
common challenges and bring us closer together through economic, commercial, cultural, 
educational and scientific exchanges.  
4.393.   Turning to cooperation, we thank our Mexican friends, with whom we agreed to adopt the 
Technical and Sci entific Cooperation Programme 2016 -2017, which will support projects in 
different areas. Two of the most relevant initiatives for this new period are the technical and 
institutional capacity -building project to control the southern pine beetle in Honduras,  to be 
conducted jointly with CONAFOR, and the rainwater management project in the city of 
Tegucigalpa, to be carried out with support from the Metropolitan Autonomous University of 
Mexico.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  4.394.   Added to the above are the agreements signed by our authorities in  areas such as tourism 
and consular cooperation, and copyright and related rights.  
4.395.   The bilateral/regional trade relationship, as indicated in the two reports submitted, is 
governed by the Single Free Trade Agreement which stemmed from the renegotiation and  
consolidation by the Central American countries and Mexico of three prior agreements and which, 
as of its entry into force, eliminated, with some exceptions, all tariffs on originating goods.  
4.396.   The purpose of the agreement is to establish a joint regulatory  framework for trade in 
goods between the six countries and to lay down joint rules of origin and introduce a single 
certificate of origin; provision is made for the establishment of a single window for foreign trade 
and an economic operators scheme to fac ilitate trade and ensure customs control.  
4.397.   It is important to mention that as a result of this trade relationship, bilateral trade 
amounted to around US$719  million in 2016, with Honduras exporting close to US$106  million 
worth of fish and crustaceans, moll uscs and other aquatic invertebrates, as well as animal and 
vegetable fats and oils.  
4.398.   Honduras also exported coffee, tea, maté and spices and imported over US$613  million 
worth of goods such as electrical machinery, equipment and electrical parts, essential  oils and 
resinoids, making Mexico one of our leading importers.  
4.399.   We would also point out that in 2015 Mexico was our third largest source of foreign direct 
investment, which amounted to over US$134  million and rose more than US$360  million in the 
fourth qu arter of 2016.  
4.400.   The reports before us show acceleration of Mexico's economic growth, GDP increasing at an 
average annual rate of 2.5%, with per capita GDP rising to around US$10,000. As the two  reports 
also point out, economic growth has been driven both by  stronger domestic demand and increased 
exports of manufactures to the United States.  
4.401.   We are very pleased to note that as regards foreign trade, our Mexican friends reaffirm 
their commitment to free trade, capital movement and integrated production, to fur thering and 
deepening their policy of trade liberalization, to promoting Mexico's integration in the region, and 
to strengthening the country's presence in regional and multilateral forums and bodies.  
4.402.   We commend Mexico for the reform it has undertaken to s implify customs procedures and 
promote trade, such as the establishment of the Mexican Digital Window for Foreign Trade, 
abolition of the requirement to use the services of a customs broker, and provision for exporters 
certified as "authorized economic ope rators" (OEAs) to use the "FAST" tracks available in certain 
customs offices.  
4.403.   We are most interested to note the amendments to the Constitution concerning economic 
competition and the provisions of the Federal Telecommunications and Broadcasting Law in thi s 
respect, as well as in the financial sphere. We also welcome the fact that our authorities are 
sharing experiences on the subject in specialized forums.  
4.404.   Lastly, Honduras congratulates Mexico on the major efforts and progress made during the 
review period  and wishes it every success in its sixth trade policy review.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF MEXICO  AND ADDITIONAL COMME NTS 
5.1.  It is a pleasure to see you again today, and I would like to take this opportunity to repeat 
that it has been a great experience  and an honour for me to spend two days with WTO Members 
reflecting and sharing a variety of points of view on the trade policies implemented by Mexico over 
the past four years.  
5.2.  I congratulate and extend renewed thanks to the Chair, Ms  Irene Young, for her  work in 
conducting this sixth review of Mexico's trade policies.  
5.3.  I am also grateful to our friend Ambassador Gustavo Vanerio for sharing his thoughts with us.  
5.4.  My thanks go to the other Members that have expressed interest in this review by offering 
their comments last Wednesday and by submitting the 531 questions received, which, I am 
pleased to say, have all been answered.  
Recognition of structural reforms  
5.5.  At the time of the previous review, Mexico's spirit of reform raised considerable expectations. 
Four years later, I am pleased to report on the implementation of these reforms and on the initial 
results recorded so far.  
5.6.  I would also like to stress that although significant progress has been made thanks to these 
reforms, we are convinced that their real i mpact on the expansion of our economy will become 
clearer in the medium and longer term; we must not therefore let up on the reform process and 
must continue to address those areas of our economy that so require. What I shall convey to 
Mexico in my conclud ing report is that, in my view, your comments have shown us once again that 
the path of reform is the right one.  
5.7.  I simply wish to make a few points concerning what has been said about the reforms. First, 
as regards the assignment of slots at Mexico City In ternational Airport, I would like to emphasize 
that the Federal Economic Competition Commission itself has made use, for the very first time, of 
the powers conferred upon it to investigate whether conditions of competition effectively exist.  
5.8.  Under the fina ncial reform, the following measures in particular have been taken to 
implement the recommendations made by the Federal Competition Commission: provisions have 
been issued to encourage mobility and services among financial institutions, barriers to entry t o 
operate as a clearing house have been removed and efforts have been made to promote the 
transparency of operations conducted with credit institutions.  
5.9.  These measures show that Mexico's financial system is open to foreign investment in a 
climate of greate r efficiency, transparency and competition, in the interests of the users of such 
services.  
Comments on observations  
5.10.   Although the recognition expressed by other Members encourages us to continue along the 
reform path begun 30 years ago, their concerns also  open up windows of opportunity to refine our 
trade policies.  
Trade concentration  
5.11.   One of the recurring themes last Wednesday concerned the concentration of trade in just a 
few partners. In order to diversify, we clearly need to replicate in other parts of the world the 
success we have achieved in terms of integrated production in North America. I therefore repeat 
that Mexico will pursue its trade liberalization efforts on a bilateral, regional and multilateral basis. 
We trust that other partners will respon d likewise.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  Plurilateral agreements  
5.12.   Turning to plurilateral agreements, we note the keen interest shown by a number of 
delegations in Mexico becoming party to such agreements.  
5.13.   It is common knowledge that our country has given priority to the multilateral route over 
plurilateral agreements. From our standpoint, the fact that we are not party to a plurilateral 
agreement does not detract from our liberalization endeavours or from our vision of or 
commitment to the WTO.  
Agricultural tariffs  
5.14.   As to the comments concerning Mexico's applied tariffs in the agri -food sector in particular, I 
would point out that since 2012 Mexico has reduced its average applied tariffs in the sector by a 
little over 30%, from 20.9% to 13.2%.  
5.15.   Likewise, the highest rates have been subst antially reduced by more than 200  percentage 
points in the case of bacon and animal fats and oils, from 254% to only 45%, and by 
179 percentage points in that of poultry meat, from 254% to 75%, to quote but a few examples.  
5.16.   It is important to emphasize that , as of January  2017, Mexico's maximum applied tariff was 
reduced once again, down to 75%, and concerns only three products: poultry meat, fresh potatoes 
and fructose.  
5.17.   These tariff cuts represent a significant effort on Mexico's part to implement its unila teral 
trade liberalization policy in the face of looming protectionist tendencies in the world – an issue 
that I have already addressed.  
Sanitary and phytosanitary measures  
5.18.   We note the Membership's concerns regarding sanitary and phytosanitary measures and  
other technical barriers to trade. We wish to emphasize that Mexico has a robust framework for 
the preparation of SPS measures and technical regulations and for conformity assessment 
procedures. This is evidenced by legal provisions such as the five -year review provided for in 
Article  51 of the Federal Law on Metrology and Standardization and conformity with international 
standards, which is specified in the Law.  
5.19.   We also note the concern expressed by several countries in the course of this review 
regarding  delays in issuing or reviewing SPS measures, particularly those relating to agri -food 
products. In its written responses to Members, Mexico provided details on the procedures followed, 
but, to quote only a few examples, in the case of pork, in December  2010 Mexico requested 
information in addition to that originally provided by the country concerned, without receiving any 
reply to date. In the case of apples, that country responded to a specific request in March  2017 
but failed to include apples in its pri ority list for pest risk analysis of its exports.  
5.20.   We would point out that in other instances, the delays may be due to the fact that 
applications are prompted by a desire to promote agricultural products and as we are committed 
to that objective, we pursue  it, but it must not adversely affect the protection of human and 
animal life and health. Once again, I repeat that the Government of Mexico is willing to receive 
and review information submitted via the official channels for such purposes.  
5.21.   I cannot fail t o mention that Mexico promotes observance of the principles and obligations 
set forth in the Agreements on Technical Barriers to Trade and on the Application of Sanitary and 
Phytosanitary Measures, as evidenced by its active participation in the discussion s held in the 
respective WTO Committees. Furthermore, Mexico is prepared to deepen the disciplines laid down 
in the two Agreements by fostering transparency and the setting of regulatory cooperation 
agendas, such as those driven together with its partners in the Pacific Alliance regarding 
pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, or under the agreements on recognition of equivalence in the 
pharmaceutical sector that Mexico has signed with Australia, the European Union, Switzerland, and 
others.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  Anti-dumping measures  
5.22.   Another concern raised by Members a couple of days ago related to anti -dumping measures. 
In this respect, we believe that Mexico, like other WTO Members, asserts its rights in accordance 
with the relevant legislation.  
5.23.   Nonetheless, I can tell the Membership t hat as regards the investigations carried out by 
Mexico it may rest assured that:  
5.24.   They have been conducted in strict compliance with the WTO Anti -Dumping and 
SCM Agreements and our domestic legislation.  
5.25.   They have been initiated at the request of the affect ed sectors themselves, that is, none of 
them was instituted ex officio  by the Mexican authorities.  
5.26.   In some cases, the investigations stemmed from an international trend over the review 
period in response to the difficult situation facing a number of produc tion sectors as a result of 
world market behaviour, especially in the steel industry.  
5.27.   The principles of due process and transparency were observed at all times in implementing 
these anti -dumping measures.  
Intellectual property  
5.28.   Mexico is a country committed  to enforcing intellectual property rights, including, of course, 
those relating to cinematographic works. This is demonstrated by the fact that, at the 
administrative level, the Mexican Industrial Property Institute carried out over 4,500  inspection 
visits and settled more than 1,200 infringement proceedings in 2016.  
5.29.   As regards measures taken by the customs administration at the border to prevent the 
entry into Mexico of goods infringing intellectual property rights, we have strengthened 
cooperation betwee n the various administrative authorities and the right holders, with a view to 
identifying suspicious goods and preventing them from being introduced into the Mexican market.  
5.30.   The customs administration applies automated risk analysis, chiefly based on the 
information it receives ahead of the arrival of the goods, so that the competent authority can take 
action before the goods are released, for example by suspending customs clearance.  
5.31.   The most significant results achieved include the following:  
 between Janu ary 2012 and December  2016, 6,606 trademarks were registered in the 
customs' trademarks database;  
 as a result of the customs' risk analysis, over 10.2  million counterfeit items have been 
detected over the past two years;  
 in a capacity -building drive, train ing in intellectual property rights was provided for 
700 customs officials in 2016.  
5.32.   Mexico is also considering adjustments to its domestic legislation in order to protect foreign 
geographical indications or appellations of origin. Nonetheless, these are al ready protected under 
international treaties to which Mexico is party, such as the Lisbon Agreement for the Protection of 
Appellations of Origin  and their International Registration and the Agreement between Mexico and 
the European Union on the Mutual Reco gnition and Protection of Designations for Spirit Drinks. I 
should also mention that even where protection is not provided under an international treaty, 
Mexico's Industrial Property Law prohibits trademark registration of geographical indications which 
may give rise to confusion or error as to the source of goods or services.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  Customs procedures and trade facilitation  
5.33.   As regards customs costs and procedures, the customs authorities have implemented 
various mechanisms to automate, facilitate and streamline the processes of entry and exit of 
goods within the country's customs offices. This year will see the introduction of the Customs 
Technological Integration Project  (PITA) aimed at modernizing 60 points of inspection that account 
for 99% of customs processi ng of commercial goods and 98.75% of total annual customs revenue.  
5.34.   We thank Members for acknowledging Mexico's commitment to trade facilitation and will 
continue supporting the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).  
5.35.   Mexico will continue to ensure that its import licensing regime is applied in conformity with 
its multilateral commitments and does not place restrictions on trade.  
5.36.   The Committee on Trade Facilitation will be the ideal forum for Mexico to address the areas 
of opportunity highl ighted by several Members regarding our customs procedures. We are 
convinced that implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement is a major opportunity to 
increase transparency, and to streamline and continue to automate processes so as to improve 
overall perception of customs procedures.  
Closing message  
5.37.   Madam Chair, Distinguished Discussant and Members.  
5.38.   Mexico takes the opportunity of this sixth review of its trade policies to reiterate its 
commitment to the principles to which it has subscribed over t he last 30 years, that is, free trade 
as an engine for a country's growth and development and a reliable, transparent and rules -based 
multilateral system which generates the certainty necessary for conducting trade between our 
countries.  
5.39.   We know that we ha ve achieved significant progress but are aware of the major windows of 
opportunity before us, as several of you have pointed out.  
5.40.   It has been very encouraging to hear that, from the WTO Members' standpoint, Mexico is 
considered an international reference f or its responsible commitment to defending and promoting 
free trade and a sound multilateral system, as well as for its active and constructive participation 
in the various global forums, which, of course, include the WTO.  
5.41.   Friends and colleagues in the WTO , you may rest assured that for Mexico such recognition 
implies a commitment to redouble our efforts to preserve the progress we have achieved, but, 
especially in today's circumstances, we need more countries to join in these endeavours so as to 
present a broad and united front that will enable us to face the assaults on free trade and the 
multilateral system.  
5.42.   I greatly appreciate the attention you have given me and the delegation of Mexico, to whom 
I express grateful thanks and without whom the work we cam e to present to Members would have 
been impossible. Thank you.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.43.   First of all, I would like to thank the delegation of Mexico, led by Under -Secretary for 
Foreign Trade Juan Carlos Baker, for their detailed and transparent responses to the question s 
posed by delegations.  
5.44.   There is clearly considerable interest on the part of the Membership in Mexico's trade policy, 
as reflected in all manner of questions ranging from macroeconomic policy and negotiations to 
highly practical aspects of foreign trade o perations.  
5.45.   Mexico has replied to questions on the economic environment, its trade and investment 
regime, measures directly affecting imports and exports, measures affecting production and trade, 
intellectual property and sectoral policies, including servic es, agriculture, border measures and WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  domestic support, energy, financial services, telecommunications, air and maritime transport and 
port services. The work accomplished has involved a huge effort on the part of the Mexican 
delegation.  
5.46.   Mexico has been suc cessful as regards the country's macroeconomic management and 
stability. Its structural reforms represent a major effort in reaching political consensus, underpin 
the competitiveness of the economy and should have an impact on the quality of institutions. 
Mexico has also made an appreciable effort to simplify and increase the transparency of measures 
affecting trade. We trust that Mexico will pursue its trade liberalization process by including sectors 
such as agriculture.  
5.47.   Mexico is a "global player" and a reference point in terms of international trade both on 
account of its work in the WTO and on account of its active trade negotiating policy. It is facing 
enormous challenges that have been highlighted in the course of this review, but it has the 
capacity to address them successfully. It is a powerhouse not only in the automotive sector and 
electronics (flat screens, for example), but also in agricultural production (witness the magnitude 
of its avocado exports).  
5.48.   Lastly, I would like to highlight the positi ve and important role and work performed by the 
delegation of Mexico, led by Ambassador Zapata, in contributing to and supporting the multilateral 
system and its workings. Once again I appreciated this opportunity to act as discussant in this 
exercise. I h ave derived considerable benefit from it and learned from Mexico's endeavours. Thank 
you. 
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.49.   Let me first thank the Mexican delegation for the comprehensive overview of the recent 
economic developments in Mexico presented on Wednesday that prov ided a good opportunity to 
gain a better understanding of the main developments occurred during the period under review 
and to assess the trade and investment climate based on the comments of a large number of 
Mexican trading partners. I also would like to  thank the Vice -Minister Baker for the additional 
information and responses to the  key issues raised by Members  provided this morning.  
5.50.   The EU very much appreciates the timely and exhaustive replies provided by Mexico to our 
questions and that Mexico has op ted for the alternative time -frame which gives more time to 
Members to study the replies in advance of the meeting.  The quality in time of the replies made 
that the EU has no follow -up questions.  
5.51.   Among the areas discussed on Wednesday, the EU notes that se veral Members highlighted 
the need to successfully implement the structural reforms as well as the need to further diversify 
its economy and markets. We would encourage Mexico to invest further particularly in these areas.  
5.52.   The EU notes that all Members ack nowledged and appreciated Mexico 's overall open trade 
policy and its commitments to the multilateral trading system and the leadership role in this 
Organization, especially in the lead -up to the MC11 in Buenos Aires this year. Here allow me to 
praise the e xcellent collaboration we have with Ambassador Zapata and his dream team, and pay 
a special tribute to Cristina Hernandez who will be sorely missed here in Geneva . 
5.53.   On behalf of the EU, I thank the delegation of Mexico for the constructive participation in 
this important transparency exercise.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.54.   First, we would li ke to acknowledge the excellent  stewardship of Mexico 's TPR by 
Under -Secretary Baker and we also thank Ambassador Vanerio  for his valuable contributions and 
perspectives as discussant.  
5.55.   Second, we also want to express our appreciation to the entire delegation in the centre of 
the room. We know how much work goes in to pu lling these things together and an excellent job 
has been done , so we want to acknowledge that work.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  5.56.   We do appreciate the remarks made today , and particularly highlighting some additional 
statistics on IP enforcement and trade facilitation, two issues that we had raised in our statement 
and we appreciate the additional engagement and feedback on those. We do look forward to 
increase d cooperation with Mexico on these and other important trade issues going forward.  
5.57.   We also want to acknowledge and appreciate the responses that have been provided to our 
advance written questions and we are continuing to review those responses . We have submitted 
several IPR -related follow -up questions this morning for Mexico 's consideration. I n particular , we 
continue to seek additional clarification on how Mexico guarantees protection of undisclosed 
information, and specifically how Mexico 's list of exemptions to this protection works in practice.  
5.58.   We had posed a question regarding investigative powers of INDAUTOR and appreciate the 
response provided. However, some aspects of that question were unaddressed so we have 
included a follow -up question , and we have also provided some additional clarification to support 
our question regarding the rule of the shorter term as understood in the Berne Convention.  
5.59.   In our statement during Day 1 of Mexico 's TPR review, we have raised some concerns about 
measures t hat may negatively affect our steel export s and we appreciated that, as you noted in 
your statement today, you have taken note of those concerns. Going forward, we urge Mexico to 
apply policies regarding the import and use of steel, including pipe and tube  that are better 
consistent with its trade obligations.  
5.60.   During the discussion on Day 1, there were a number of delegations commenting on 
cooperation with Mexico under various regional trade agreements, including the extensive network 
of regional agreements  under the Latin -American Integration Association (ALADI). Indeed, another 
delegation mentioned that Mexico had concluded 21 agreements under ALADI either in the last 
year or since the last review. We would note that the WTO Membership at large has yet to benefit 
from WTO transparency for this mega -regional network and we would request Mexico promptly 
provide the required notifications for these and the dozens of additional agreements Mexico takes 
part in under the ALADI.  
5.61.   We hope that Mexico would agree wit h the United States that regional integration efforts 
and WTO transparency are not mutually exclusive and we would urge Mexico to demonstrate 
leadership within the region to reject this notion. If regional groups chose to redefine for 
themselves their WTO transparency obligations, there would be clear and nega tive implications for 
the rules -based trading system that Mexico has done much to support.  
5.62.   In conclusion, we once again express our appreciation to Under -Secretary Baker and his 
entire team for all of their efforts and would like to add a personal note of thanks to Cristina 
Hernández for all of the work that she has engaged in over the years and the contributions s he has 
made to this Institution;  she will be sorely missed in our Mission. We would like t o wish the 
Mexican delegation a successful Trade Policy Review.  
CANADA  
5.63.   I would like to take the opportunity to thank the Mexi can delegation, both the Geneva -based 
team led by Ambassador Zapata and the delegation from Mexico City led by Vice Minister Baker.  It 
has been a very co mprehensive trade policy review.  I would dare say a successful trade policy 
review. W e thank you for the response  this morning. I would also like to thank you for the 
responses to our questions and we look forward to answers to a couple of supplemental questions  
we had . 
5.64.   Finally, I would like to say thank you and farewell to my friend Cristina,  certainly 
Ambassador Zapata's loss is your gain Juan Carlos. Cristina will be missed here in Geneva and 
certainly, from a personal point of view , I will miss her good council and friendship.  
BRAZIL  
5.65.   Thank  you Mexico for the complementary  information provided in this session. I would just 
like to refer to the last statement made by the United States,  although the U.S. has not mentioned 
in which intervention those 21 bilateral agreements were referred to. It is important to clarify that WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  we were not referring to ALADI or LAIA agreements in our statement. We were referring to 
bilateral instruments between Brazil and Mexico. So I think that the U.S. dele gation got it entirely 
wrong. I will read our statement again, we said that: "This trade policy review coincides with 
positive development s in Brazil -Mexico relations. In the last two years, our countries celebrated no 
less than 21 new bilateral instrument s". So that  is what we were referring to. So I will not, of 
course, reply on behalf of  Mexico regarding notifications. T his issue of notifications has been dealt 
with in the appropriate Committees in this Organization and Brazil has been presenting its pos ition 
in those fora. So, I would like to make a clarification regarding our statement and it refers, for 
instance, to a bilateral agreement on cooperation and investment facilitation signed in 2015.  So it 
has no relation to the ALADI or regional agreements  that apparently the U.S. is referring to. Thank 
you. WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  This Trade Policy Review has provided an opportunity for Members to better understand 
Mexico 's trade and investment policies. I would like to thank t he Mexican del egation led by 
Mr Juan Carlos Baker, Under -Secretary of Foreign Trade in the Ministry of the Economy; the 
Discussant, H.E. Ambassador Gustavo Vanerio, Permanent Representative of Uruguay to the WTO; 
and all the Members who have participated in this exercis e, for your invaluable contributions.  
6.2.  Members noted in this TPR that, since the last one, the global environment had been very 
challenging, characterized by a rise in financial market volatility and the collapse of oil prices. 
Despite all these, Mexico 's economy, including trade, continued to grow moderately. Mexico has 
weathered through difficult times with sound macroeconomic management, and is determined to 
boost productivity and economic growth by encouraging competition and foreign investment.  
6.3.  In thi s meeting, Under -Secretary Baker explained to Members how this was being done as 
part of the country 's comprehensive and ambitious structural reforms, which covered areas such 
as taxation and competition policies; the energy, financial services and telecom munications 
sectors; as well as education and the labour market. Members welcomed this development, 
because  the reforms sought to address precisely some of the concerns raised at the last Trade 
Policy Review, such as insufficient competition and barriers t o foreign investment in the relevant 
sectors.  
6.4.  Nonetheless, Members noted that Mexico 's trade remained highly dependent on one single 
market, and that there was a clear need to diversify. In this connection, Member s encouraged 
Mexico to capitaliz e on its ma ny preferential trade agreements, and strengthen its economic ties 
with different trading partners.  
6.5.  Commenting on Mexico 's participation in the WTO, Members praised Mexico for its strong 
commitment to free trade and the multilateral trading system, and app reciated Mexico 's activ e and 
constructive role in this Organiz ation. Mexico was congratulated on its ratification of the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement, and was encouraged to join the plurilateral Agreements on Information 
Technology; Government Procurement;  and Trade in Civil Aircraft.  
6.6.  Regarding domestic trade policies and measures, Members congratulated Mexico on having 
unilaterally and significantly reduced the tariffs applied to certain agricultural products, and 
encouraged Mexico to further reduce tariff s, not only for agricultural goods, but also for produc ts 
such as textiles and shoes. Likewise, Mexico was commended for having simplified its customs 
procedures, for instance, by adopting the digital window and making the use of customs broker 
optional, b ut it was also encouraged to make further improvements, especially regarding the 
unified application of customs procedures and the use of reference prices.  
6.7.  As regards other non -tariff measures, Members hoped that import licensing, even if required, 
would n ot be creating unnecessary burdens or disruptions to trade. Similar concerns were raised 
regarding SPS and TBT measures and the use of trade remedies, in particular anti -dumping 
measures. Members also urged Mexico to further open its market to foreigners, in particular in the 
area of government procurement and services. On intellectual property rights, Mexico was asked 
to strengthen enforcement, particularly at the border.  
6.8.  On sectoral policies, Members ' main focus was on the agriculture sector, more specif ically the 
numerous support programmes, and their scope and effectiveness.  
6.9.  In his statement just now, Mr Baker has responded comprehensively to major concerns 
raised by Members. We look forward to Mexico 's replies to all outstanding questions in a month 's 
time, which will then mark the successful conclusion of this  trade policy  review.  
6.10.   The participation of a large number of delegations in  this meeting, and the over 
500 questions posed during this review, indicate clearly the importance of Mexico as a globa l 
trading partner. It is  indeed  heartening to see that Mexico has taken TPRs so seriously, and that 
issues raised by Members four years ago are now being accorded priority and positively ad dressed 
in their structural reforms.  WT/TPR/M/352 • Mexico  
 
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  6.11.   Mexico is progressive and maki ng bold steps forward in trade liberalization.  The business 
and growth opportunities thus created benefit not only Mexico 's trading partners,  but also the 
people of Mexico.  I hope this TPR will be another catalyst for further reforms, taking the country 's 
trade relations and economy to yet higher levels; so that come what may in the global 
environment, Mexico will be well pr epared to brave the challenges.  
__________