Three years into the deal, experts say, some workers have begun to benefit but broad impacts are still far off.
"Hopefully that will ensure that Mexico doesn't become a dumping ground for companies looking for cheap labor and lax regulations," said Thea Lee, U.S. Deputy Undersecretary for International Labor Affairs whoShe said in an interview that Mexico was working to fulfill its commitments, backed by leadership keen on helping workers.
"Our hope is that Mexico will be well-poised to take advantage of nearshoring ... if they continue on the path towards really building labor institutions that work, where workers can have confidence." Since 2020, several U.S. labor complaints in Mexico have paved the way for independent unions to land pay raises and even
. Lee said such examples inspire workers who in the past may have feared threats or dismissals for trying to organize.