European Firms Eye Mexico as Gateway to North America via USMCA

Mexico City – European companies are increasingly viewing Mexico as a strategic platform to access the North American market through the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), according to André Driessen, the Netherlands’ ambassador to Mexico. The ambassador emphasized the importance of the treaty’s continued stability for attracting and maintaining European investment.

Leveraging the USMCA for Market Access

Driessen highlighted that European firms investing in Mexico are not solely focused on the domestic market. Instead, they aim to capitalize on the commercial integration facilitated by the USMCA to reach the broader North American consumer base. A modernized trade agreement between Mexico and the European Union could further enhance these benefits, according to the ambassador. Source

Concerns Over Security and Regional Disparities

Despite the optimistic outlook, Driessen expressed concern regarding security challenges in certain regions of Mexico. He noted that insecurity poses a risk to potential investors, contrasting these areas with states like Querétaro, which he described as a safe and reliable location for operations. Source

Netherlands as a Gateway to Europe for Mexican Products

The relationship is mutually beneficial, with the Netherlands serving as a key entry point for Mexican products into the European market. The Netherlands’ advanced logistics infrastructure facilitates this trade. Key areas for strengthened bilateral cooperation include:

• Water management and sustainability technologies
• High-efficiency agriculture and horticulture
• Integration within the automotive supply chain and energy efficiency

USMCA’s Importance and Brexit as a Cautionary Tale

Driessen underscored the importance of maintaining the integrity of the North American trade bloc, warning that disrupting established value chains would carry significant economic costs. He cited the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union (Brexit) as an example, noting the economic repercussions experienced by the UK following its exit. Source

André Driessen: Background

André Driessen was appointed as the Dutch ambassador to Mexico and Belize in September 2025. Prior to this role, he served as the ambassador to Brazil from 2021 to 2025 and held various positions within the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including Director of International Business. Source