Mexico has reiterated that its beef exports to Vietnam face obstacles and, as a result, is pursuing a case before the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Mexico noted that it has been attempting to resume its beef exports to Vietnam since 2015. However, it complained that the lack of progress and ongoing delays were due to repeated requests for additional information and stringent translation requirements.
Beef Exports to Vietnam
Mexico emphasized that it had proposed establishing a technical working group to address the outstanding issues. However, no substantive progress was made in this regard. As a result, export applications from seven establishments were put on hold.
For its part, Vietnam indicated that it had sent multiple communications requesting documentation for import risk analysis since receiving Mexico’s application in 2016. However, it clarified that the procedure suffered continuous delays over the years. According to the Vietnamese delegation, these delays were due to the submission of incomplete, outdated, or untranslated information.
An on-site audit of Mexico’s beef production and control systems was being prepared as the next step to advance the assessment.
Mexico’s concern in this case was raised again in July 2026 and was supported by the European Union at the WTO.
Export Diversification
A report presented this Wednesday to the WTO analyzes the evolution of Vietnamese trade. According to the document, changes in Vietnam’s links to global value chains outside its region have been moderate.
In Europe, partners such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom saw slight declines in their market share. Likewise, these countries experienced a loss in their traditional trade positions.
In contrast, there is an emerging trend toward diversification into emerging markets such as India, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia. These partners achieved moderate increases in their trade with Vietnam. At the same time, smaller regional economies, such as Cambodia and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, gained strategic importance. This phenomenon reflects a clear push toward greater subregional integration.
Overall, the data suggest that a marked dependence on Asian production networks persists alongside gradual diversification. However, connections with major advanced economies outside the region are progressing at a significantly slower pace.