In a global environment marked by tariff volatility , Mexican companies are turning to technology as a key ally to navigate the challenges of international trade.
According to the Thomson Reuters Institute ‘s 2025 Tariff Report , Mexican companies specializing in international trade are increasing their use of technology tools to optimize processes and mitigate risks .
The study, based on a survey of 50 international trade professionals from Mexican firms with annual global revenues of at least $200 million , responsible for managing foreign trade activities and supply chains, highlighted how technology is transforming their ability to adapt to a dynamic business environment.
According to the report, 90% of respondents considered technology crucial for automating regulatory compliance processes. This automation allows companies to comply with customs and tariff regulations more efficiently, reducing errors and operating costs .
Likewise, 86% indicated that their companies already use predictive technology to select customers, suppliers, and business partners, minimizing risks in import and export operations.
Predictive technology is also helping companies identify opportunities under trade agreements such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) .
In this regard, 68% of respondents indicated they use these tools to classify goods according to trade agreement rules, maximizing benefits. However, only 28% have fully automated classification workflows for imports and exports, which indicates an area of opportunity for greater technological adoption.
In addition to technology, Mexican professionals highlighted the importance of having a skilled workforce, with 74% emphasizing this factor as key to sustained industry growth. Meanwhile, 58% expressed the need to implement technology, while 38% highlighted the automation of work processes as a pillar for development.
According to the Bank of Mexico (Banxico) , Mexican companies will increase their investment in supply chain management technologies by 12% in 2024.
Mexico’s proximity to the United States and strong trade ties make deciphering U.S. policies a priority. Along these lines, the professionals surveyed are focused on diversifying supply chains and adjusting pricing strategies to mitigate the impact of tariffs . Seventy-two percent reported using technology to optimize trade routes, while 66 percent implemented manual operational changes to reduce costs.
The report also revealed that 68% of companies have production protocols, while 58% have risk management protocols, and 44% have financial protocols to adapt to changes in bilateral trade. These measures reflect a proactive approach to addressing tariff volatility and maintaining competitiveness.
Opportunities on the Horizon
Trade agreements such as the USMCA, the Mexico-European Union Free Trade Agreement , and the Manufacturing, Maquiladora, and Export Services Industry Program (IMMEX) are seen as a significant advantage. 72% of respondents indicated that these agreements have benefited their companies, and a similar percentage expect the USMCA revision in 2026 to open new opportunities for exports to the United States and Canada.
The rise of nearshoring remains a key trend, with 74% of professionals confident that Mexico will continue to attract foreign investment. Furthermore, Plan Mexico has generated optimism: more than four out of five respondents believe it will encourage investors to expand their operations in the country.
A Focus on Innovation:
The adoption of technology not only responds to immediate challenges but also positions Mexican companies for sustainable growth. The combination of predictive tools, automation, and strategic protocols is allowing these companies to face uncertainty with greater confidence.
In a world where tariffs and trade volatility are a constant, Mexican firms are leading the way with technology and proactive strategies.
It’s worth remembering that Mexico, like many other countries around the world, is facing economic uncertainty due to the United States’ tariff policy, which is currently on hold for 90 days.
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