A significant Mexican trade delegation to Canada commenced on Thursday, with more than 200 Mexican companies aiming to enhance commercial ties during a two-day event across two cities that includes discussions on the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
The trade mission started in Toronto and will later proceed to Montreal. This delegation is one of the largest ever sent by Mexico to Canada, albeit a condensed version of the initially planned three-day tour that was set to include a stop in Vancouver.
Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc emphasized the strong bond between Canada and Mexico based on shared values and economic goals that have brought prosperity to both nations over the years. He expressed optimism about making North America the most competitive, dynamic, and resilient region globally.
Mexican Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard highlighted Mexico’s intention to strengthen ties with Canada not only in the short term but also over the long run, given the evolving geopolitical, technological, and economic landscapes worldwide. The Mexican delegation comprises over 240 businesses with more than 1,000 business-to-business meetings already scheduled, as reported by Mexico’s Secretariat of Economy.
The trade mission signifies efforts by both Canada and Mexico to diversify their trade partnerships, reduce dependence on the U.S., and navigate through tariff uncertainties and global economic challenges.
Fernando Vargas, CEO of Bloom White Label Partners, emphasized the ample collaboration opportunities between Mexico and Canada, citing their geographical proximity, shared time zone, and upcoming joint hosting of the World Cup as factors that foster cooperation.
During a dinner meeting on Wednesday, LeBlanc and Ebrard discussed common economic challenges. They are expected to address the pending CUSMA review, although the meeting is not a formal negotiation session. Ebrard also plans to engage with top executives from leading Canadian companies and facilitate meetings between Mexican businesses and Canadian investment firms.
The trade visit by Mexico follows a significant Canadian trade mission to Mexico earlier in the year, resulting in numerous business agreements. Bilateral trade between Canada and Mexico reached $62 billion in merchandise in 2025, with Canada being a key destination for Mexican exports. Trade volumes have surged since the implementation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in 1995.
Luis Arzani, chief commercial officer for Grupo Xpress Internacional, expressed hopes that the trade mission would facilitate direct relationships with Canadian firms to streamline logistics operations between Mexico and Canada without intermediaries.
Armando Ortega, president of the Mexico-Canada bilateral committee of the Mexican Business Council for Foreign Commerce, stressed the importance of Mexican investment in Canada amid global economic uncertainties. He emphasized the untapped potential for trade growth between the two nations and the need for transformative initiatives to bolster the relationship.
Ortega, a participant in NAFTA negotiations, emphasized the need for Mexico and Canada to collaborate and assert their interests during the CUSMA review to ensure a balanced outcome without unilateral impositions.
The trade mission represents a strategic move to enhance economic cooperation between Mexico and Canada, fostering mutually beneficial opportunities for businesses in both countries.
