Overview
- Lawmakers introduced the Mexican Energy Trade Enforcement Act directing the U.S. Trade Representative to request a USMCA dispute panel or press the case in the 2026 review, with a 90‑day report to Congress.
- The bill alleges Mexico gives preferential treatment to Pemex and CFE that disadvantages U.S. firms and violates nondiscrimination and state‑enterprise provisions under the trade pact.
- Sponsors include Republicans and Democrats led by Rep. Jodey Arrington with backing from Henry Cuellar and Carol Miller, reflecting strong support from Texas and other energy‑focused districts.
- Major business groups—including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the American Petroleum Institute, Energy Workforce & Technology Council, and the Permian Basin Petroleum Association—urge action, citing permitting hurdles, bureaucracy, and inspections they say tilt the field.
- Mexico’s Energy Secretariat denies discrimination and asserts transparency and private‑investment rules, while the U.S. previously stopped at consultations in 2022 and the Trump administration has not yet announced whether it will seek a formal panel.