As of the entry into force of NAFTA, in 1994, Mexico’s northern border has concentrated more than 30 percent of the country’s workforce, employed in the manufacture of electronic components, vehicles and auto parts. Combined exports by Canada and Mexico to the United States increased from 150 billion dollars to 500 billion dollars during this period.
But not all that was promised has been met. Mexico has become the leading importer of beef, rice, apples, beans and corn-based sweeteners. It is also the second largest importer of U.S. corn, and while U.S. producers and Mexico’s large food companies have clearly benefited, the experience of Mexico’s farmers and consumers is not that favourable.