In a bid to tackle the challenges surrounding shrimp exports from Guatemala to Mexico, officials from both countries convened during the Thirteenth Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The meeting, chaired by Guatemala’s Vice Minister of Integration and Foreign Trade, Héctor José Marroquín Mora, and Mexico’s Undersecretary of Foreign Trade, Alejandro Encinas Nájera, focused on resolving the existing restrictions on Guatemalan shrimp entering the Mexican market.

Mexican Support for Certification and Inspection

Undersecretary Encinas extended Mexico’s support, particularly through the Ministry of Economy, in facilitating inspections conducted by the National Agri-Food Health, Safety and Quality Service (SENASICA). These inspections aim to reaffirm the certification granted to Guatemalan shrimp plants since 2023, highlighting their adherence to health and traceability standards.

Both parties reiterated their commitment to resolve the issue promptly within the framework of the Free Trade Agreement. Undersecretary Encinas affirmed the Mexican government’s readiness to swiftly address the matter. They agreed upon establishing a permanent work plan to collaboratively address and overcome any challenges arising in commercial exchange.

Background on Restrictions

The restrictions on Guatemalan shrimp imports into Mexico were initially imposed by the Seventh District Court in the State of Sinaloa. These measures aimed to prevent the perceived circumvention of regulations, particularly concerning shrimp purportedly originating from Ecuador and entering the Mexican market through Guatemala.

The Ministry of Economy, in conjunction with various governmental bodies and representatives from Guatemala’s private sector, remains actively engaged in finding a resolution. Efforts are focused on swift and effective actions to alleviate the constraints currently hindering the smooth flow of shrimp trade between the two countries.