The Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute recently held its monthly “Newsmaker Breakfast,” an event highlighting current issues impacting the State of Utah. The focus was the deteriorating relationship between the U.S. and Mexico and how it may impact the Utah economy. Mexico is Utah’s fourth largest trading partner with approximately $850 million in exports each year. Many Utah businesses depend on legal Mexican workers and Utah consumers purchase products from Mexico at competitive prices. The cultural ties between Mexico and Utah are also strong. Approximately 42 percent of Utah’s foreign born population has ties to Mexico.
Newsmaker Derek Miller, President and CEO of World Trade Center Utah, responded to questions about Utah’s existing economic ties with Mexico, including exports, imports, and labor supply, and how current U.S. policies may impact these connections. The discussion focused on how U.S. policies may influence the economy in the Beehive State and how Utah leaders can protect the state’s economic interests. The conversation was moderated by Kem C. Gardner Institute director Natalie Gochnour.
Research shared at the event is available on this page.