 Protectionism is the economic policy of restricting imports from other countries through

methods such as tariffs on imported goods, import quotas, and a variety of other
government regulations. Proponents argue that protectionist policies shield the producers,
businesses, and workers of the import-competing sector in the country from foreign
competitors and raise government revenue.

Methods : Tariffs, import quotas, government regulations

Proponents' argument : Shields domestic producers, businesses, and workers; raises government
revenue

Opponents' argument: Reduces trade, adversely affects consumers and export sectors

Economic consensus : Negative effect on economic growth and welfare

Related to: Economic nationalism, free trade

1) Agenda Basics: “Addressing Global Economic Fragmentation

amid Rising Protectionism and Trade Wars”
2) Global Economic Fragmentation

 Means the world economy splitting into competing blocs instead of being globally integrated.
 Example: US-led bloc vs China-led bloc.
 Effects: weaker global cooperation, disrupted supply chains, slower growth.

3) Protectionism

 When countries protect domestic industries by putting tariffs, quotas, subsidies, or restrictions.
 Idea: safeguard local jobs → but result = higher prices & weaker global trade.

4) Trade Wars

 When two/more countries retaliate with tariffs against each other.

 Example: US-China trade war (2018–2019) → hurt global economy and countries caught in
between (like Mexico).

Core Problem; Fragmentation threatens globalization, weakens institutions like WTO, and hits
developing/export-reliant countries hardest.

Mexico’s Economy (relevant to the agenda)

1) Export-Oriented Economy

 Mexico = 14th largest economy in the world.

 Exports = ~40% of GDP (very high).
 Main exports: automobiles, electronics, oil, agriculture (avocados, corn, tomatoes).
 2) Trade Dependence on US

 About 80% of Mexico’s exports go to the US.

 Mexico is tightly tied to USMCA (United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement).
 Vulnerable to US protectionism (tariffs, border restrictions).

3) Diversification Efforts

 To reduce dependency on the US, Mexico joined:

 Pacific Alliance (with Chile, Colombia, Peru).
 CPTPP (with Japan, Australia, Canada, etc.).
 Maintains trade links with EU & China.

4) Key Sectors

 Automobiles & electronics → dependent on global supply chains.

 Agriculture → some protectionism to safeguard farmers (corn, beans).
 Oil & energy → major export but vulnerable to global price fluctuations.

5) Mexico’s Position in Agenda

 Wants open trade & multilateralism → because its economy grows through exports.
 Sees protectionism as harmful → threatens industries, jobs, and supply chains.
 Wants regional cooperation as a buffer against global fragmentation.

Together:
Agenda Basics = fragmentation + protectionism + trade wars = global threat.

Mexico’s Economy = highly export-dependent, tied to US but seeking diversification, so Mexico

has a strong interest in preventing fragmentation.

2) Mexico’s stance & Past experiences

1) Pro–Free Trade, Anti-Protectionism

 Mexico strongly supports open markets because its economy relies heavily on exports.
 Protectionism and tariffs directly hurt Mexico’s industries like automobiles, electronics, oil, and
agriculture.
 Mexico advocates rules-based multilateralism (WTO system) instead of unilateral protectionist
measures.

2) Support for Regional & Multilateral Agreements

 Mexico promotes regional cooperation through USMCA (with US & Canada), Pacific Alliance
(with Chile, Colombia, Peru), and CPTPP (with Asia-Pacific nations).
  Believes that regional trade blocs can act as a bridge to reduce fragmentation globally.

3) Balanced Diplomacy

 Mexico avoids confrontation and promotes dialogue over retaliation.

 Sees economic fragmentation as a threat to global supply chains and developing nations.
 Pushes for reforms in the WTO to strengthen dispute resolution and protect vulnerable
economies.

Mexico’s Past Experiences with Protectionism & Trade Wars

1) Caught in the US–China Trade War (2018–2019)

 Mexico’s supply chains (especially cars and electronics) were indirectly disrupted.
 Some companies shifted production to Mexico as an alternative, showing the risk and
opportunity of fragmentation.

2) US Tariff Threats under Trump

 The US (Mexico’s largest trade partner) imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum in 2018.
 Trump also threatened 25% tariffs on Mexican cars in 2019.
 Instead of escalating, Mexico engaged in negotiations and diplomacy, leading to the signing of
USMCA (a modernized NAFTA).

3) Agricultural Protectionism

 While Mexico advocates free trade, it sometimes protects sensitive sectors (like corn and beans)
to safeguard local farmers.
 However, Mexico emphasizes that such limited measures do not undermine its overall
commitment to free and open trade.

4) Global Forums

 In the WTO, Mexico has consistently voted against protectionist measures and for stronger
dispute resolution.
 In the G20, Mexico promotes the idea that fragmentation hurts developing nations most and
calls for cooperation.

Allies/Supporters of Mexico
United States: The United States is Mexico's closest and most valued partner, sharing a 2,000-
mile border. It is Mexico's largest trading partner, accounting for nearly 80% of its exports in
2023. Trade between the two countries has been significantly strengthened by the North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which came into effect in 1994, leading to increased
economic and political ties. Both countries also collaborate on regional security, particularly
concerning drug trafficking and border issues. Despite the strong ties, the relationship can be
challenged by issues such as illegal immigration and trade disputescitationSourceIndex5. There
is common ground on issues like China, and Mexico benefits from manufacturing relocation
from Asia to North America.

Canada: Canada and Mexico established formal diplomatic relations in 1944 during World War
II, where both participated on the Allied side. Since NAFTA, economic and political ties have
significantly strengthened, and both countries often collaborate when dealing with the United
States, such as on issues related to the economic embargo against Cuba. Mexico and Canada are
considered close friends and strategic partners with active bilateral relationships across various
sectors, including trade, high-level political exchanges, climate change, culture, energy, and
human rights.

Mexico’s Allies (Support Free Trade, Oppose Protectionism)

Canada –

 USMCA partner, similar free-trade orientation.

 Both opposed Trump-era tariffs.

European Union –

 Pro–multilateralism, against unilateral trade wars.

 Strong trade relations with Mexico (EU–Mexico Global Agreement).

Japan & South Korea –

 Members of CPTPP, strong advocates of global supply chains.

 Allies in Asia-Pacific trade.

Pacific Alliance (Chile, Colombia, Peru) –

 Mexico is a founding member.

 All pro-integration, open-market economies.

Latin American partners (Brazil, Argentina) –

 Mixed policies but generally support regional trade integration.

Neutral / Middle-Ground Partners

United States –

 Biggest trade partner (80% of exports).

 Sometimes protectionist (Trump tariffs), but Mexico cannot openly oppose US → usually uses
diplomacy.
 Mexico = cautious, seeks cooperation not confrontation.

China –

 Important trade partner, sometimes alternative to US markets.

 But also engages in trade wars & is seen as disruptive in WTO.
 Mexico = cooperative but careful.


Allies for Mexico (Pro–Free Trade, Supportive in UNGA MUN)

1) Canada → Strongest ally. Same concerns in USMCA, also defends open trade.
2) Netherlands → Part of EU, very pro-free trade, rules-based order, WTO supporter.
3) Vietnam → Fellow CPTPP member, export-driven, supports lowering barriers.
4) Bangladesh → Developing economy, vulnerable to protectionism, will support fairer
market access.
5) Kenya & Nigeria → Both African economies push for inclusive globalization, oppose
protectionism that blocks their exports.

Opposers / Conflicting Positions (Not outright “enemies,” but won’t fully align with
Mexico)

1) Saudi Arabia → Oil-driven, national-interest focused, not strongly pro-global trade

liberalization.
2) UAE → Similar to Saudi, pursues selective trade strategies, not fully multilateral.
3) Turkey → Protectionist in agriculture/industry, prioritizes national economy, unlikely to
support Mexico’s open stance.
4) Iran → Heavily sanctioned, focused on resistance economy, doesn’t align with Mexico’s
WTO/free-trade focus.
5) Israel → Limited trade links with Mexico, positions often shaped by geopolitics more
than trade.

Debate Points for Mexico

 Free Trade as Mexico’s Lifeline
 Mexico’s economy is highly export-driven (cars, oil, electronics, agriculture).
 Protectionism hurts Mexican workers and industries by reducing demand.
 Therefore, Mexico stands firmly against protectionism and in favor of rules-based free trade.
2. Economic Fragmentation Hurts Developing Countries

 Most If the world splits into trade blocs, developing countries like Mexico suffer first because
they rely on global supply chains.
 Example: US-China trade war disrupted Mexican industries.
 Mexico calls for unity and cooperation instead of fragmentation.

3. Regional Trade Blocs as Solutions, Not Divisions

 Mexico is part of USMCA, Pacific Alliance, CPTPP.

 Instead of deepening fragmentation, Mexico sees these as bridges that connect regions to the
global economy.
 Debate line: “Regionalism should complement globalism, not replace it.”

4. Mexico’s Role as a Mediator

 Mexico is caught between protectionist US and trade-heavy China/EU.

 Mexico can act as a bridge-builder, mediating between protectionist and free-trade countries.
 Debate line: “Mexico believes dialogue, not retaliation, is the answer to trade conflicts.”

5. Need for WTO Reform

 Current WTO dispute system is slow and weakened (e.g., US blocked Appellate Body).
 Mexico supports reform to make WTO faster and more effective.
 Debate line: “Only a strong WTO can prevent trade wars from escalating.”

6. Safeguards for Vulnerable Economies

 Not all countries can compete equally.

 Mexico supports special protection for vulnerable economies, especially in Latin America, Africa,
and Asia.
 Debate line: “Free trade must not mean unfair trade.”

7. Supply Chain Diversification

 Trade wars show the danger of over-dependence on a single market.

 Mexico encourages global diversification of supply chains so that no country can “hold the world
hostage” with protectionist policies.

Quick Examples You Can Say in Debate

 “Protectionism is like closing the door in a burning house—it isolates but does not solve
the problem.”
  “Mexico’s economy proves that integration creates prosperity, while fragmentation
creates instability.”
 “Regional blocs like USMCA and Pacific Alliance are not walls—they are bridges that
prevent further fragmentation.”
 “The WTO must be reformed, not ignored. Only global rules can stop global trade wars.”

Possible Resolution Clauses / Solutions

1. Strengthening the WTO (World Trade Organization)

 Call for WTO dispute settlement reform → faster, more accessible for developing countries.
 Encourage transparency in tariff & trade restrictions.
 Demand all member states to reduce unilateral tariffs and resolve conflicts multilaterally.

2. Promoting Regional Trade as a Bridge to Global Integration

 Recognize regional trade blocs (USMCA, Pacific Alliance, CPTPP, African Continental Free Trade
Area) as stepping stones, not barriers.
 Encourage cooperation between these blocs to reduce fragmentation.
 Mexico could propose a UN Forum for Regional Trade Cooperation.

3. Safeguards for Developing Economies

 Special provisions for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) → e.g., tariff exemptions, market access.
 Create an UN Economic Solidarity Fund to help small economies affected by trade wars.
 Support technology transfer & capacity-building programs.

4. Diversifying Global Supply Chains

 Encourage multinational companies to spread production across multiple regions (not depend
on one country).
 Incentivize Latin America, Africa, and Asia as alternative production hubs.
 Mexico can push for Latin America’s role in resilient supply chains.

5. Dialogue Mechanisms for Trade Disputes

 Create a UN Economic Mediation Forum under ECOSOC to mediate trade disputes before they
escalate into trade wars.
 Promote confidence-building measures like tariff freezes during dialogue.
 Encourage bilateral + multilateral trade diplomacy.

6. Balance Free Trade with Fair Trade

 Call for trade to be sustainable and inclusive (workers’ rights, environmental standards).
 Mexico can support clauses linking trade + SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).
  Ensure developing nations can protect sensitive industries (like agriculture) without
undermining global free trade.

7. Transparency & Data Sharing

 Establish a UN Trade Data Portal where countries report new tariffs, trade restrictions, and
supply chain disruptions.
 Helps prevent misinformation and surprise escalations.

Example Phrases You Can Use in Draft Resolution

 “Encourages member states to reduce reliance on protectionist policies and adopt multilateral
dispute resolution mechanisms through WTO reforms.”
 “Recommends the creation of a UN-led Trade Mediation Forum to address trade disputes in a
constructive manner.”
 “Supports the strengthening of regional trade agreements as building blocks toward a unified
global trade system.”
 “Urges member states to provide special safeguards and exemptions for Least Developed
Countries to prevent economic marginalization.”
 “Calls for the diversification of global supply chains to prevent overdependence and
vulnerability during trade conflicts.”

Before the Debate – Preparation

 Know your country’s stance Read up on your assigned country’s official policy on
the topic. Even if you personally disagree, in MUN you represent them, not yourself.
 Learn some key facts & stats Have at least 4–5 important facts, treaties, recent events,
and quotes to use in speeches.
 Prepare 1–2 opening speeches 60–90 seconds each, summarising your country’s
position and proposing solutions.

During the Debate – How to Speak

o Opening Statement (Formal Debate / General Speakers List) Introduce yourself: “Honourable
Chair, distinguished delegates, the delegation of [Country]…”
 State your country’s position clearly.
 Suggest solutions — don’t just point out problems.
 Example:
 “The delegation of Kenya recognises the growing concern of global economic fragmentation. We believe
that strengthening South-South trade partnerships and reforming WTO mechanisms can create more
balanced opportunities…”

Point-by-Point Participation

 During Moderated Caucus (short timed speeches):

 Pick a single point each time you speak — too many points will confuse the audience.
 Use phrases like:
 “We strongly support…”
  “We urge the committee to consider…”
 “We oppose any measure that…”
 Unmoderated Caucus (Informal Lobbying)
 This is where real deals happen. Walk around, talk to other delegates, form blocs (alliances), and start
drafting resolutions.
 Be polite but persuasive — use your country’s interests as bargaining chips.

MUN Debate Tricks

 Don’t attack countries personally — attack policies.

 Instead of: “Iran is the reason…”, say: “The actions taken by certain states have contributed to…”
 Stay in character — always speak as if you are that country’s diplomat.
 Use diplomatic language:

“We recognise the efforts of…”

“We regret to note…”

“We seek to cooperate with…”

 Write down others’ points so you can respond later.

 If unsure, ask questions during Points of Inquiry — this makes you look active without having to give
a big speech.

How to Handle Nerves

 Write your first sentence on paper so you can start confidently.

 Speak slowly — rushing makes you harder to follow.
 Look at the Chair, not the audience, if you feel stage-shy.
 Remember: Everyone else is also pretending to be a country — no one expects perfection.

💡Pro Tip: In MUN, alliances and solutions matter more than “winning” arguments. The best delegates
get their clauses included in the final resolution, not just speak the loudest.

Mexico’s Key Trade Agreements / Blocs

1. USMCA (United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement) Replaced NAFTA in 2020.

 Partners: US, Mexico, Canada.

 Importance for Mexico:
 80% of Mexico’s exports go to the US, making this agreement vital.
 Covers cars, agriculture, digital trade.
 Talking point:
“USMCA shows that dialogue and negotiation can modernize trade deals and prevent fragmentation.”

2. Pacific Alliance Founded in 2011 by Mexico, Chile, Colombia, Peru.

 Goals: regional integration, free movement of goods, people, capital, and services.
 Importance for Mexico:
 Expands trade within Latin America.
 Attracts investment and reduces dependency on the US.
 Talking point:
 “Pacific Alliance is proof that regional cooperation strengthens global economic integration instead of
dividing it.”

3. CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership)

 Members: Mexico + 10 countries (Japan, Canada, Australia, Vietnam, Chile, etc.).

 Importance for Mexico:
 Links Mexico to Asia-Pacific markets.
 Access to ~500 million consumers.
 Talking point:
“CPTPP helps Mexico diversify supply chains and integrate with Asia, reducing risks from trade wars.”

4. Mexico–EU Global Agreement (under modernization)

 Free trade deal between Mexico and the European Union.

 Importance:
 Diversifies Mexico’s trade beyond North America.
 Gives Mexico access to EU’s large consumer base.
 Talking point:
“Strengthening EU–Mexico ties reduces dependence on any single partner and keeps trade global, not
fragmented.”

5. Other Partnerships OECD & G20 membership →

 Mexico participates in global economic decision-making.

 WTO → supports rules-based order, disputes settled multilaterally.
 Latin America → building stronger South–South trade links.

How to Use in MUN Speeches

 Use USMCA to show Mexico’s reliance on North America.

 Use Pacific Alliance + CPTPP to show Mexico’s diversification.
 Use EU agreement to show Mexico’s global reach.
 Overall argument:
 “Mexico’s participation in these agreements shows that regional cooperation can act as a bridge to global
cooperation, preventing fragmentation.”