The World’s Largest Free-Trade Zone is Just Getting Started

With the creation of NAFTA nearly 20 years ago, Canada, Mexico and the United States formed the world’s largest free-trade zone.

In an interview leading up the North American Leaders’ Summit, Mexican Foreign Secretary Jose Antonio Meade indicated that the region is just getting started. He outlined a few of each country’s contributions in strengthening the region. For example, Mexico’s recent reforms in education, labor markets, telecommunications, and energy among others.

Meade also citied a number of places where the member countries can build on NAFTA’s success to revitalize the partnership, referencing policy recommendations designed by business leaders meant to increase integration and competitiveness. These recommendations include intelligent border systems, regulatory standards and practices, as well as North American energy security and sustainability.