Sheinbaum, Lula Agree to Boost Mexico-Brazil Cooperation

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva have agreed to deepen bilateral relations across multiple strategic sectors. In addition to trade, both countries plan to collaborate on scientific research, education, the pharmaceutical industry, and ethanol production. Sheinbaum states that this renewed partnership seeks to complement their respective economies through cooperation, rather than through the creation of a free trade agreement.

The pharmaceutical sector will be a key focus. Brazil has developed a strong pharmaceutical industry and maintains its own regulatory agency. Mexico, through COFEPRIS, aims to establish collaboration between the two agencies to promote reciprocal investment and regulatory alignment in the health sector.

Ethanol production also presents a promising area for cooperation. Brazil's expertise in the ethanol industry offers potential benefits for Mexico’s sugar sector and processing mills, opening avenues for technology transfer and industrial development.

President Sheinbaum states that this strategic alliance has been a shared objective since her initial conversations with President Lula da Silva, and it is now beginning to take shape. To launch this new phase of collaboration, Brazilian Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, accompanied by cabinet ministers and business leaders, will visit Mexico in late August. The delegation will engage with members of the Mexican cabinet and private sector representatives to explore commercial agreements, coordinate policy initiatives, and foster joint investments in both countries.