To participate in the market, all firms must be internationally competitive. With expanded trade, Mexico can seek new opportunities. De la Calle foreshadowed Mexico's agreement with the European Union, saying that he expected his country to find significant opportunity and become a significant trading partner of Europe. Mexico and the EU announced a free trade agreement Nov. 24. De la Calle also discussed the World Trade Organization and hope for progress.
Trade is a significant instrument for economic growth.
The free trade agreements, and U.S. legislation that would give Caribbean Basin countries trade breaks in the United States, increase competition in Mexico. But de la Calle said that Mexico welcomes the competition.