The almost month-long extension granted by Donald Trump in the application of tariffs on exported Mexican products has allowed for an agreement that many consider enviable on an international level. However, uncertainty persists among investors until a long-term bilateral understanding is achieved that leads to the ratification of the USMCA without tariffs.
The supposed triumph of Sheinbaum is being celebrated with a music festival in the Zócalo instead of turning into a confrontation against the United States. It is important to avoid polarizing the population on both sides of the border. The agreement between both leaders has put an end to López Obrador's failed strategy of 'hugs, not bullet' and has managed to stop the caravans of illegal migrants.
López Obrador's resentment towards U.S. authorities allowed the entry of synthetic drugs like fentanyl and saturated border crossings. Sheinbaum, through the agreement with Trump, managed to calm the markets, stabilize the peso against the dollar, demonstrate that it is possible to reach agreements with the United States, and address issues of immigration and combating criminals.
Sheinbaum's challenges include not only relations with Trump but also restructuring in areas such as health, education, energy, social equity, and economic development. All of this must be done with limited budgetary resources due to the inherited deficit. The crisis at Pemex, with considerable debt and declining production, is another concerning issue.
Despite the achievements, one must be realistic in recognizing that the victory obtained is just the beginning of a long battle. The SNTE union has submitted its National Demand Document 2025 to the SEP, marking the start of salary and labor negotiations with the current government. The commitment to improving the salary and benefits conditions of education workers is one of the main focuses of these negotiations.
