FEMSA Expands Into US Market with US$385 Million Deal

FEMSA acquired 249 convenience stores from Delek US Holdings, marking its strategic entry into the US convenience market. Meanwhile, the Brazilian meat sector is pushing for permanent tariff reductions in Mexico's market.

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FEMSA Expands Retail Operations Into the US Market

FEMSA has acquired 249 convenience stores from Delek US Holdings, Inc. for US$385 million, marking its entry into the United States convenience and mobility market. The stores, predominantly located in Texas, New Mexico, and Arkansas, will operate under the DK brand and align with FEMSA's strategy to expand its retail operations. This acquisition supports FEMSA's growth plan, leveraging its experience with OXXO stores to build a presence in the US market.

Brazil Seeks Permanent Access to Mexican Meat Market

The Brazilian business sector is advocating for permanent access to the Mexican meat market, which has so far been facilitated through temporary presidential decrees like PACIC that eliminate tariffs on Brazilian chicken, pork, and beef. In 2023, Brazil exported significant quantities of these meats to Mexico, with total agricultural exports to Mexico rising by 61.2% to US$1.7 billion in 2022. The Brazilian Animal Protein Association seeks stability in trade relations and suggests that Mexico could reciprocate by reducing tariffs or making PACIC a permanent policy, enhancing bilateral trade between the two countries.

Drought, High Temperatures Slash Mexico's Bean Production in 2023

Bean production in Mexico fell dramatically in 2023 due to severe drought and extreme temperatures, leading to record-high imports to satisfy domestic demand. Despite recent rains, the damage to the bean crop is severe, with national production dropping by 56% compared to 2022, necessitating imports of 313,000t. The Mexican government anticipates a recovery in bean production by the end of 2024, with a forecasted harvest of 1.1Mt, while ongoing efforts focus on addressing the impact of variable rainfall and supporting local farmers.

Czech Wines’ Incursion Into the Mexican Market

Czech wines are making a bid to enter Mexico's wine market, traditionally dominated by Italy, Spain, Chile, and France. In 2022, Mexico imported 87.2 million L of wine, with primary suppliers being European countries and Chile, reflecting a significant 32.8% increase in volume from the previous year. CzechTrade, alongside Pasión Idea-Lista, is introducing Czech wines to Mexico, aiming to capitalize on the market's growing interest in diverse and exotic wine options, particularly highlighting the potential of Czech white and rosé wines.

Mexico, South Korea to Recertify Meat Export Facilities

SADER is working with South Korea's Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA) to recertify five federally inspected facilities (TIF) for pork and beef exports. Recent inspections by South Korean officials, hosted by SENASICA, ensure these facilities meet South Korean safety and sanitary standards. SENASICA highlights the importance of these collaborations for maintaining safe food supplies and international trade, while APQA officials confirmed compliance with their protocols and expressed readiness to share expertise on managing livestock diseases.