Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
The situation at the Mexico-United States border has become increasingly tense, evidenced by an urgent letter from Lic. Joaquin Spamer to Mexico’s Chancellor Alicia Barcena Ibarra. Spamer sent the letter on September 21, 2023, as President of Mexico’s Border Trade Alliance (BTA). In the missive, Spamer outlines growing concerns about the closures of main entries and disruptions in trade, a fundamental pillar for both countries.
He wrote that Mexico and the United States enjoy a robust and interdependent economic relationship, with Mexico being the leading trading partner of its northern neighbor. This bilateral exchange not only strengthens the economies of both countries but also supports the livelihoods of countless people on both sides of the border.
He pointed out that recent closures at strategic entry points, such as Matamoros, Piedras Negras, Juarez, and Tijuana, have raised alarms in the industries and communities of both nations. The disruption of trade and business threatens to destabilize joint economic prosperity and requires immediate attention and solution.
Undeniably, security at the border is a crucial issue, and governments must address the constantly evolving challenges in this area. Nevertheless, Spamer emphasizes in his letter the need to find a balance. Security measures should help the efficient functioning of international trade, the engine of both countries’ economies.
Spamer’s request to engage in meaningful dialogue with Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas of the United States Department of Homeland Security reflects the situation’s urgency and the need for bi-national collaboration. Dialogue and cooperation are essential to address security concerns and ensure uninterrupted trade and business flow.
The call to action made by the President of BTA-Mexico is clear: it is imperative to find solutions that defend the values of prosperity, cooperation, and mutual benefit that define the relationship between Mexico and the United States. He reaffirms that with her leadership and commitment, Chancellor Barcena has the opportunity to facilitate collaborative efforts that can positively impact the prosperity of both nations.
Lic. Joaquín Spamer is willing and eager to offer any help or support to facilitate this collaborative effort, highlighting the importance of unity and joint action to overcome the challenges at the border.
In times of uncertainty and challenges, collaboration and dialogue are more essential than ever—the letter sent by Lic. Joaquín Spamer to Chancellor Alicia Barcena Ibarra highlights the urgency of restoring trade and business conditions at the border between Mexico and the United States. Both countries face balancing security and economic prosperity, a mission that requires commitment, cooperation, and binational leadership.
Read the letter below:
