The U.S. government has asked Mexico to investigate alleged violations of workers’ rights at Tubos de Acero de Mexico S.A., a major steel pipe manufacturer in Veracruz, following claims the company is systematically blocking union organizing efforts.
The request marks the 37th case filed under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement’s Rapid Response Labor Mechanism, which allows for swift intervention when workers’ rights are allegedly violated at specific facilities.
The U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement’s Interagency Labor Committee for Monitoring and Enforcement, co-chaired by the U.S. Department of Labor and U.S. Trade Representative, submitted the request after finding sufficient evidence to support allegations made by SINAIN, a Mexican union.
Allegations of anti-union discrimination
SINAIN filed a petition on May 14 alleging that TAMSA is denying union members their rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining through anti-union discrimination and interference with union activities.
The company, known as TAMSA, is one of the world’s leading producers of seamless steel tubes for oil and gas, automotive, and construction industries. It exports products to more than 50 countries, including the United States.
Under the rapid response process, Mexico now has 10 days to decide whether to conduct a review of the allegations. If it agrees to investigate, the Mexican government has 45 days to complete its investigation and present findings.
Growing use of trade enforcement tool
The rapid response mechanism represents a key enforcement tool under the USMCA, allowing the U.S. to address labor violations at specific facilities rather than pursuing broader trade disputes. The mechanism has been used increasingly since the trade agreement took effect in 2020.
Previous cases have resulted in various outcomes, including facility improvements, worker reinstatements, and enhanced union organizing protections. The mechanism allows for trade consequences if violations are confirmed and not remedied.
The steel industry has been a particular focus of U.S. trade enforcement efforts, given its strategic importance and history of labor disputes in Mexico’s manufacturing sector.
The case highlights ongoing tensions over labor standards in North American trade relationships, as the U.S. continues to pressure Mexico to strengthen enforcement of worker protections guaranteed under the USMCA.
