First USMCA Rapid Response Complaint Outside Auto Sector Filed

The U.S. is asking Mexico to review whether an Industrias del Interior (INISA) garment factory near Aguascalientes is coercing workers by favoring workers who support the company's collective bargaining agreement and disciplining -- and dismissing -- workers if they support the union Sindicato de Industrias del Interior. The administration made the announcement June 12. It is the first complaint not in the auto sector.

“Today’s action highlights the United States’ focus in ensuring workers in all sectors have freedom of association and collective bargaining rights. As in previous matters, we look forward to working closely with the Government of Mexico to address the issues present in this case," U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai said in the press release.

Liquidation is suspended for the denim garments made in this INISA factory. It is not clear which brands source jeans from the factory, and a spokesperson from USTR did not say which U.S. company contracts with the factory. Levi Strauss used to contract with INISA in Rincon de Romos, the town near Aguascalientes, but has not for many years, a spokeswoman said.

No goods have lost their USMCA benefits as a result of a rapid response complaint so far, as each company where the process has run its course has settled the matter to the satisfaction of the U.S. government.