Mexico Bets on Circular Economy to Strengthen Supply Chains Under USMCA

Mexico is positioning the circular economy as a key driver of industrial competitiveness and supply chain resilience as North America prepares for ongoing reviews of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The push comes after the Green Ecologist Party of Mexico (PVEM) highlighted the strategic role of circular manufacturing in reducing dependence on imported materials while strengthening domestic production. The initiative builds on Mexico's General Law on Circular Economy (LGEC), approved in January 2026, which establishes the country's first nationwide legal framework for resource efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable production. The legislation shifts environmental policy beyond traditional waste management by promoting product lifecycle management, circular design, and greater use of recycled materials across industries. Supporters argue that the framework offers businesses greater regulatory certainty while encouraging investment in sustainable manufacturing. As the USMCA enters regular review cycles, policymakers believe circular economy practices can improve regional supply chain integration, increase the use of secondary raw materials, and enhance Mexico's industrial resilience within the North American market. A central feature of the law is the introduction of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), requiring producers to consider repairability, durability, modularity, and end-of-life management during product design wherever feasible. The framework will also establish a national Circular Economy Registry, with sector-specific compliance requirements to be introduced through future regulations. Implementation is already underway, with state governments required to align their legislation with the federal framework. The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) is expected to publish implementing regulations and the National Circular Economy Program, identifying priority sectors—including plastics—for the first phase of implementation. As Mexico advances its circular economy agenda, the reforms aim to support long-term industrial competitiveness while reinforcing more sustainable and resilient supply chains across North America.