California and Sonora Sign MOU on Climate Change and Trade

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed an MOU with Sonora, Mexico on climate and trade amid federal tariff changes. The agreement highlights the importance of cooperative climate efforts and solidifies trade relations, as Mexico is California’s largest export market, purchasing 19% of its goods.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) concerning climate change and trade with Governor Alfonso Durazo Montano of Sonora, Mexico. This signing occurs amidst the backdrop of the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle several Biden-era climate policies and enforce reciprocal tariffs on U.S. trading partners shortly.

During the event in Sacramento, Governor Newsom highlighted the importance of advancing their mutual climate goals, referencing the recent wildfires in Los Angeles as a pressing reminder of climate change’s impact. However, specific details regarding collaboration between California and Sonora were not elaborated upon in his remarks.

This MOU is particularly timely, as it is set just weeks prior to the imposition of reciprocal tariffs by President Trump, which will tax foreign countries at the same rate as their tariffs on U.S. goods. Remarkably, it follows a recent exemption for Mexican products under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

Mexico serves as California’s largest export market, purchasing approximately 19% of the state’s products. In 2024, California exported $33 billion in goods to Mexico, with primary exports including computers, machinery, electronic products, and transportation equipment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes this strong trade relationship enhances economic ties between the two regions.

Conversely, California also receives a variety of Mexican products, such as vehicles, medical devices, and agricultural produce. Notably, Sonora stands as the leading producer of copper in Mexico and is recognized for its significant electronic and automotive manufacturing sectors, which comprise electric vehicles.

The recent MOU between California and Sonora underscores a strategic alliance aimed at addressing climate change and sustaining trade relations, particularly in light of shifting policies at the federal level. This partnership not only strengthens economic ties but also emphasizes the importance of cooperation in combating climate challenges. California’s reliance on exports to Mexico illustrates the necessity of this collaboration amidst impending tariff impositions.

Original Source: ny1.com