Hunt Institute White Papers
White Papers
- Beyond Borders: A Three-Part Series on U.S.-Mexico Trade Dynamics
Mayra Maldondo, Xiaofei Chen, and Nancy Gonz ález
December 2025
Abstract:
This white paper series provides a comprehensive, multi-scalar analysis of U.S.–Mexico trade, examining national trade patterns, state-level dynamics along the Southwest border, and the performance of key land ports of entry. Together, the three reports provide a nuanced understanding of Mexico’s emergence as the United States’ top trading partner and the infrastructure, policy, and supply chain shifts that are shaping this trajectory. The series explores macroeconomic trends, cross-border integration under the U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), and the influence of nearshoring on bilateral trade flows. Through national, regional, and port-specific lenses, the series equips policymakers, industry leaders, and regional stakeholders with the necessary context and data to navigate the evolving trade relationships and infrastructure demands across North America.
Part 1 - National Level
Beyond Borders: The Strength of U.S.-Mexico Trade Ties
This white paper analyzes U.S.–Mexico trade at the national level, highlighting Mexico’s rise as the United States’ leading trade partner. It explores the structural drivers behind this trend—including geographic proximity, deep supply chain integration, policy alignment under the USMCA, and the global shift toward nearshoring. The report presents comparative data on the top three U.S. trading partners, emphasizing Mexico’s growing share of U.S. exports and imports, and offers insight into the evolving trade landscape that is reshaping North American economic relations.
Part 2 - Regional Level
The Vital Role of U.S.-Mexico Border States in International Trade: Strengthening Bilateral Commerce Through Integrated Regional Markets
Focusing on the four U.S. border states—Texas, California, Arizona, and New Mexico—this white paper examines how each state’s infrastructure, industry composition, and trade specialization contribute to the U.S.–Mexico trade corridor. Texas dominates in volume and connectivity, while California leads in high-tech and agricultural flows. Arizona anchors the copper and agri-food trade, and New Mexico has emerged as a growing player in electronics and medical manufacturing. The report highlights how nearshoring and congestion patterns are influencing trade distribution and state-level competitiveness along the Southwest border.
Part 3 - Port-Level
Bridges of Trade: The Importance of the U.S.-Mexico Land Ports
This white paper provides a detailed analysis of the six busiest U.S.–Mexico land ports of entry: Laredo, El Paso, Otay Mesa, Hidalgo, Eagle Pass, and Santa Teresa. It examines each port’s trade composition and specialization, ranging from automotive and electronics to agriculture and consumer goods, providing a data-driven perspective on how localized trade flows reflect broader economic shifts. By analyzing throughput, commodity trends, and port-specific dynamics, the report underscores the strategic importance of port infrastructure in facilitating cross-border trade and responding to global supply chain transformations.
Enrique Perret, Victor Colosio, Mayra Maldondo, Xiaofei Chen, Nancy Gonz ález, and Ana P. Gutierrez Zubiate
December 2025
Abstract:
North America’s automotive industry is navigating a period of transition as expanded U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs, along with the upcoming 2026 review of the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), begin to influence established production dynamics. This paper evaluates the effects of these trade measures on the integrated North American supply chain, demonstrating how higher duties—raised in 2025 to 25.0% on aluminum and ultimately doubled to 50.0% for both metals—intensify production costs even for vehicles manufactured within the USMCA region.
Given that a standard vehicle contains roughly 1,000 pounds of steel and 350 to 560 pounds of aluminum, these tariffs have direct implications for material sourcing, pricing, and consumer affordability. The analysis also considers the impact of new USMCA rules taking effect in 2027, which require steel and aluminum to be melted and poured within a partner country to qualify as originating. Together, these shifts underscore the importance of coordinated regional strategies in maintaining the global competitiveness of North America’s automotive sector.
Mayra Maldonado, Nancy Gonz ález, and Ana P. Gutierrez Zubiate
May 2025
Abstract:
Ciudad Juárez plays an important role in North America’s manufacturing landscape, particularly in the context of ongoing industrial adjustments following the global disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This white paper analyzes the city’s evolving employment dynamics, where manufacturing represented over 63% of total employment in 2024, more than twice the national average. The analysis considers the effects of nearshoring, automation, sectoral developments, especially in the automotive industry, and changes in labor policy, including the increase in minimum wage within the Northern Border Free Zone. Using publicly available data, media coverage, and contextual analysis, the paper explores how technological, economic, and regulatory factors are influencing labor demand and shaping investment decisions in this border region. The findings aim to inform stakeholders about the potential long-term implications of these workforce shifts for industrial activity and regional competitiveness.
Erik Devos and Zifeng Feng
May 2025
Abstract:
This white paper presents a comparative analysis of property tax rates in El Paso, Texas, assessing how they align with those in other major Texas cities and select metropolitan areas nationwide. Building on the companion report Residential Property Taxes in El Paso County: Determinants and Breakdowns, it expands the scope to include multistate comparisons and highlights the roles of various taxing entities. The analysis examines how state-level exemptions, caps, and policies shape effective tax burdens, finding that El Paso’s rates are relatively high compared to peer cities in Texas, New Mexico, Nevada, Colorado, and California. This framework offers insight into the structural factors influencing El Paso’s fiscal landscape and their implications for local governance and economic decision-making.
Erik Devos, Zifeng Feng, John D. Gibson, and Mayra G. Maldonado
July 2024
Abstract:
El Paso's property tax rate, a frequent subject of local conversation and media coverage, is more than just a point of debate; it reflects the community's ongoing search for understanding and fairness. With Texas lacking a state income tax, property taxes in El Paso are crucial for supporting essential services such as education, infrastructure, and public safety. This white paper addresses the recurring question, "Why is El Paso's property tax rate so high?" by presenting a thorough comparative analysis, detailed case studies, and trend evaluations. It also delves deep into the intricacies of how property taxes are determined, offering a detailed examination of the system's workings. Designed to be a key resource, it provides clarity on the often-complex mechanisms behind property taxes and guides readers through the factors that shape these rates.
