Mexico, United States, and Canada to Begin Negotiations for a Trilateral Agreement in the Franchise Sector

The Mexican Franchise Association (AMF) announced the initiation of negotiations to forge a

among the franchise sectors of Mexico, the United States, and Canada, aiming to strengthen regional cooperation and competitiveness in North America.

The rapprochement took place during the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) Annual Convention, where representatives from the three countries began aligning efforts to develop an agreement that will foster the international expansion of the franchise model.

According to AMF President Betsy Eslava, this initiative gains particular significance given the upcoming review of the Agreement between Mexico, the United States, and Canada (

), as well as the economic opportunity presented by the 2026 FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the three nations.

“In this scenario, the franchise sector is positioned as a strategic vehicle for generating investment, formal employment, and regional productive linkages,” Eslava stated. She added that the agreement also includes actions to strengthen the sector leading up to the 2026 World Cup.

The businesswoman noted that Mexico currently boasts over 1,500 active franchise brands, while the United States exceeds 4,200, and Canada records approximately 1,200. Collectively, the bloc totals over 6,900 brands, solidifying its position as the world’s most robust region under this business model.

Over the coming months, work will focus on establishing a framework with clear rules and benefits for each market.

“This is not a symbolic announcement; it is the beginning of a formal and strategic undertaking. We have aligned our intentions; now our teams will work to achieve a well-structured agreement with tangible benefits for the sector in each country,” Eslava affirmed.

It is worth noting that Betsy Eslava, representing the AMF; Alan Catlett, Senior Vice President of Programs and Operations at the IFA; and Sherry McNeil, President and CEO of the Canadian Franchise Association, are participating in these discussions.