# USTR Resolves Labor Dispute at Akwel Juárez Facility

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) and the Government of Mexico have successfully resolved a labor rights dispute at the Akwel Juárez México, S.A. de C.V. facility in Ciudad Juárez, Chihuahua, under the USMCA Rapid Response Labor Mechanism. This resolution involved remediation actions addressing union interference and worker retaliation claims brought by the Sindicato Nacional de Trabajadores y Empleados Especializados, Conexos y Similares de la República Mexicana (SINATAM). Following these actions, the U.S. Treasury resumed liquidation of goods from the facility, restoring normal trade operations.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals and contractors engaged in cross-border supply chains should note the effective use of the USMCA Rapid Response Labor Mechanism to resolve labor disputes impacting trade flow.
- The resolution demonstrates the role of interagency coordination, including the USTR, Treasury, and the Interagency Labor Committee for Monitoring and Enforcement, in enforcing labor standards tied to procurement and trade.
- Companies sourcing from or operating facilities in Mexico should evaluate compliance with labor rights provisions to mitigate risks of trade disruptions.
- This case highlights the importance of monitoring labor relations and union activities as part of supply chain risk management under USMCA provisions.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Transportation
**Topics:** Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** September 29, 2026

### Government Entities
- United States Trade Representative (USTR)
- Secretary of the Treasury
- Interagency Labor Committee for Monitoring and Enforcement (ILC)
- Government of Mexico

### Vendors
- Akwel Juárez México, S.A. de C.V. (Facility operator)

### Sources
- [United States and Mexico Announce Successful Resolution of Rapid Response Labor Mechanism Matter at Akwel Juárez México Facility | United States Trade Representative](https://ustr.gov/about/policy-offices/press-office/press-releases/2026/september/united-states-and-mexico-announce-successful-resolution-rapid-response-labor-mechanism-matter-akwel) - USTR