Mexico will begin an immediate water delivery to Texas farmers to ease tensions over a longstanding water treaty with the United States, President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Friday. The move follows increasing pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has threatened tariffs and sanctions over Mexico’s failure to meet its obligations under the 1944 water-sharing treaty.
The treaty requires Mexico to deliver 1.75 million acre-feet of water from the Rio Grande to the U.S. every five years. However, with less than 30% delivered and the current cycle ending in October, U.S. officials and Texas lawmakers have expressed strong concern, accusing Mexico of non-compliance and putting American agriculture at risk.
President Sheinbaum emphasized that the delivery will depend on water availability and acknowledged the drought conditions impacting northern Mexico. She stated that an agreement is likely in the coming days and maintained that the treaty remains fair and enforceable.
Mexican Agriculture Minister Julio Berdegue said he had a productive call with U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau regarding the water transfer and irrigation improvements in northern Mexican states. Rollins later praised Trump for his tough stance on ensuring treaty compliance.
Mexico has agreed to send 122,000 acre-feet of water and is exploring ways to deliver another 81,000 acre-feet, though this still accounts for less than 40% of its total obligation. Internal tensions may arise as Mexico’s federal government could clash with northern states that are protective of their water resources, particularly following a recent amendment granting federal authorities more control over water diversion to meet treaty terms.
The issue remains under close watch as it intersects with trade and diplomatic relations between the two countries.