The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) is redefining how global companies approach supply chains. In 2025, USMCA nearshoring in Mexico has emerged as a top strategy for companies seeking cost savings, better logistics, and resilient manufacturing in North America. As the region responds to new political and economic shifts, nearshoring under the USMCA framework is gaining unprecedented momentum.

This blog explores the key drivers behind the rise of USMCA nearshoring in 2025, including political changes, new infrastructure, trade policies, and economic advantages that make Mexico a prime destination for international investment.

How USMCA Nearshoring Is Transforming Manufacturing in 2025

USMCA nearshoring in Mexico refers to relocating production facilities from Asia or other regions into Mexico to capitalize on the trade benefits offered by the USMCA. This includes lower tariffs, streamlined customs, and regional content rules that encourage North American sourcing.

By 2025, nearshoring has become a strategic imperative. Global disruptions, including shipping delays and rising Asian labor costs, have prompted companies to rethink their supply chain models. Mexico, with its proximity to the U.S. and robust trade framework under USMCA, offers a compelling alternative.

Key benefits of USMCA nearshoring in Mexico include:

Zero or reduced tariffs on a wide range of products.

Improved customs efficiency, speeding up cross-border trade.

Rules of origin that favor North American content.

Labor and environmental compliance aligned with international standards.

According to Mexico News Daily, Mexico became the top exporter to the U.S. in 2024, with USD 466.6 billion in exports, accounting for 15.6% of all U.S. imports. This milestone highlights Mexico's growing role in regional trade and the strategic importance of USMCA nearshoring.

2025 Political Changes Reshaping USMCA Nearshoring

Political decisions in 2025 are significantly influencing the landscape for nearshoring in Mexico. Infrastructure investments, tariff revisions, and trilateral cooperation are reshaping regional trade.

Puerto del Norte: A New Gateway for Trade

In August 2025, Puerto del Norte in Matamoros became the first major port built in Mexico in over two decades. It reduces shipping time by up to five hours compared to Altamira and supports intermodal connections for the automotive, steel, and energy sectors. This development enhances logistics for USMCA nearshoring in Mexico.

Canada-Mexico Collaboration Ahead of USMCA Review

In anticipation of the 2026 USMCA review, Canada and Mexico are strengthening trade cooperation. Joint initiatives aim to preserve the agreement’s benefits and counterbalance protectionist measures from the U.S.

Tariffs on Asia Fuel Mexico's Competitive Edge

U.S. tariffs on Chinese and Vietnamese imports are encouraging companies to shift operations to Mexico. A Bank of America survey shows that only 20% of businesses plan full reshoring to the U.S., while the majority favor Mexico for its cost-efficiency and USMCA privileges.

Plan México and Industrial Zones

The Mexican government launched Plan México, a national initiative to develop 15 new industrial parks with tax incentives. These zones are designed to support high-growth sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and logistics, accelerating the potential of USMCA nearshoring in Mexico.

What Political Decisions Mean for Nearshoring Businesses

Recent developments impact operational planning, risk assessment, and long-term investments for companies engaged in or considering nearshoring in Mexico.

Logistics & Transit Time: New ports and border upgrades improve delivery speed and reliability.

Tariff Shielding: Manufacturing within Mexico protects businesses from U.S. tariffs targeting China and Southeast Asia.

Policy Stability: Despite political changes, USMCA continues to offer a dependable legal framework for investment.

However, judicial reforms and rule-of-law concerns remain challenges. Still, the economic logic behind USMCA nearshoring in Mexico continues to attract global attention.

USMCA Nearshoring in Mexico: Industry Insights & Numbers

Let’s break down how USMCA nearshoring in Mexico is playing out across key sectors:

1. Automotive Industry

The automotive sector is the cornerstone of USMCA nearshoring. In 2024, Mexico produced nearly 4 million vehicles, exporting USD 193.9 billion worth of vehicles and components, which made up 31.4% of total exports. This deep integration with U.S. and Canadian markets is expanding further in 2025.

2. Electronics & Advanced Manufacturing

Mexico’s Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) market is booming. It's projected to grow from USD 53.2 billion in 2025 to USD 97.4 billion by 2031, driven by nearshoring of semiconductors, telecommunications equipment, and smart devices. This aligns perfectly with the regionalization goals of USMCA.

3. Aerospace & Specialized Industries

Aerospace exports hit USD 10 billion in 2024, a post-pandemic high. Mexico is now a key player in North America’s aerospace supply chain, and USMCA nearshoring continues to expand this momentum in 2025.

4. Regional Export Hubs

States like Chihuahua, Nuevo León, Baja California, Tamaulipas, and Coahuila account for over half of Mexico’s manufacturing exports. Their proximity to the U.S. border, strong infrastructure, and access to industrial parks make them ideal for USMCA-driven investments.

Conclusion

In 2025, USMCA nearshoring in Mexico is no longer just a trend—it's a strategic shift. Political stability, tariff advantages, and new infrastructure projects are creating a fertile environment for manufacturers looking to expand in North America. By leveraging Mexico’s strengths and aligning with USMCA trade provisions, businesses can secure long-term supply chain resilience.