MEXICO — U.S. trade authorities announced on Tuesday that they have lodged a labour complaint with Mexico regarding allegations that a Volkswagen auto plant in central Mexico unfairly dismissed union activists. The complaint, submitted by the U.S. Trade Representative’s office, also seeks the temporary suspension of tariff benefits for vehicles and parts produced at the Volkswagen plant in Puebla, located just east of Mexico City.
This complaint marks the 23rd under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), aimed at addressing labour abuses in Mexico. The USMCA is designed to enforce better labour standards and protections. The filing requires Mexico to investigate the allegations and either compel the company to rectify the issues or provide a valid explanation for inaction.
The core of the complaint centres on claims that Volkswagen de México, S.A. de C.V. has engaged in unfair labour practices by dismissing workers due to their roles as union representatives, their association with previous union administrations, their candidacy in union elections, or their involvement in other union-related activities. This move underscores long-standing concerns about labour rights in Mexico, where wage levels have remained low partly due to restrictions on union organizing.
Under the USMCA framework, Mexico is obligated to conduct a thorough investigation and address the labour practices at the Volkswagen plant. The complaint reflects ongoing efforts to ensure that labour rights are upheld and that workers are protected against retaliation for their union activities.
