Global Trade Mission: Mexico

Expand your reach:
Tap into one of the America’s most dynamic markets

Mexico is the second-largest economy in Latin America and the 15th-largest in the world in terms of nominal GDP. A large, diversified economy with deep trade and investment relations with the U.S., it is also the second-largest export market for U.S.-produced goods ($334 billion in 2024), as well as for Wisconsin exports (which, for the second straight year, reached an all-time high in 2024—$4.4 billion). Although the U.S. imports more from Mexico ($506 billion in 2024), many products assembled in Mexico are made from U.S. parts, so even imports from Mexico often benefit U.S. companies that originally produced the component parts. The U.S.-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) trade agreement enacted in 2020 opened up new opportunities in Mexico for U.S. companies, with benefits including improved labor and environmental standards, intellectual property protections, and streamlined trade procedures.

Business connections

In early 2026, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) will be leading a Global Trade Mission to Mexico. Wisconsin companies, whether new to exporting or looking to expand their exports into Mexico, are invited to participate in this program, which will travel to Monterrey and Mexico City—the third-largest and largest cities in Mexico, respectively, and both cities with promising opportunities for Wisconsin exporters.

In each city, participants will be scheduled for one-on-one meetings with potential partners in the market. These partners are chosen for each participating company based on the company’s needs, growth strategy, and product or service offerings. Each participant will also receive a Mexico market assessment specific to their company, detailing considerations they should keep in mind when introducing their product or service into the market. WEDC has eyes and ears on the ground in Mexico in the form of Wisconsin’s authorized trade representatives—thus making it easier for Wisconsin companies to find local partners they can trust and taking some of the guesswork out of launching in a new market or growing exports within the market. With all your appointments arranged for you, you can focus on business rather than logistics and scheduling.

Mexico outlook

Mexico’s diverse economy includes industry strengths such as automotive manufacturing, aerospace, petroleum, mining, and electronics. The automotive industry is particularly significant, along with food, electronics, and oil. Key U.S. exports to Mexico include electrical equipment, machinery, and mineral fuels. Wisconsin exports to Mexico have increased dramatically over the last decade, and they now account for approximately one-sixth of total Wisconsin exports. Leading export categories from Wisconsin to Mexico include industrial machinery, electrical machinery, plastics, and non-rail vehicles and parts, among other products and services.

Mexico City, the nation’s capital and largest metro area, is a hub for finance, politics, and industry. With more than 22 million residents, the city is home to multinational headquarters, advanced manufacturing clusters, and vibrant sectors including information technology, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and professional services, among others. Wisconsin companies’ meetings in the area might also take place in nearby cities, such as Puebla, Toluca, Queretaro, and Guanajuato.

Monterrey, Mexico’s industrial powerhouse, is known for its advanced manufacturing and innovation. Strategically located near the U.S. border, it boasts strong infrastructure, a skilled workforce, and leadership in many types of manufacturing—including automotive, steel, home appliances, engineering, and many other sectors—making it an ideal launch pad for Wisconsin companies.

Companies across many industries can find opportunities in Mexico’s diversified economy, but firms in the following sectors are especially encouraged to participate: