TAMIU's Dr. Covarrubias Addresses U.S.-México Trade Dynamics at Lone Star Trade Summit
Texas A&M International University's (TAMIU) A.R. Sanchez, Jr. School of Business Texas Center for Border Economic and Enterprise Development (TCBEED) participated in the Lone Star Trade Summit, exploring cross-border commerce, hosted by the San Antonio Business Journal in San Antonio this week.
TCBEED director Dr. Daniel Covarrubias joined distinguished experts in a panel titled "Experts Analyze Texas-México Trade Dynamics, Policy Shifts, and Economic Trends. " The panel was moderated by Ed Arnold, editor-in-chief of the San Antonio Business Journal, and included Andrew Rudman, senior associate at the CSIS Americas, and Dr. Eugenio Dante Suarez, associate professor of finance and business analytics at Trinity University. The panel explored critical insights into the current state and future trajectory of U.S.-México trade relations.
During the panel, Dr. Covarrubias addressed several key issues, including the potential impact of proposed tariffs on bilateral trade.
“A commercial standoff between both nations would be detrimental to both economies, particularly now when North America has achieved unprecedented economic integration," Dr. Covarrubias noted, "With México maintaining its position as the United States' largest trading partner, both governments must focus on strengthening these vital economic ties rather than creating new barriers."
He also presented his analysis of what he terms the "Nearshoring Paradox," highlighting how trade volumes have grown at more than six times the rate of the overall economy, even as foreign direct investment has remained relatively flat. This phenomenon underscores the deepening integration of North American supply chains despite investment challenges.
"The future of U.S.- México trade lies in greater consolidation and enhanced competitiveness," Dr. Covarrubias emphasized, "While both nations face pressing bilateral challenges that require concrete actions and measurable results – from addressing irregular migration and fentanyl trafficking to controlling weapons flow – these issues must be addressed without jeopardizing our commercial integration. Our discussion at the Summit highlighted how critical it is to maintain and strengthen these economic bonds for the continued prosperity of both nations, as North America has become an increasingly integrated and globally competitive region."
The Lone Star Trade Summit brought together key figures in international trade, including public policy experts and business leaders, to examine the complexities of cross-border commerce and the evolution from NAFTA to USMCA. The Summit, presented at the close of the 30th anniversary year of NAFTA's implementation, was particularly significant given San Antonio's historic role as the city where NAFTA was signed. The Summit provided a platform for meaningful dialogue on the future of North American trade relations while commemorating three decades of regional economic integration.
Learn more about Dr. Covarrubias's work and TCBEED research initiatives by visiting http://texascenter.tamiu.edu, emailing dcova@tamiu.edu, or calling 956.326.2520.
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