Mexico has delivered 90 million cubic meters of water to the U.S. as part of a longstanding treaty, despite a severe drought. The 1944 Water Treaty governs how the two countries share water from the Rio Grande and Colorado River. Mexico’s northern states, including Chihuahua, Coahuila, and Tamaulipas, are dry, making it hard to meet the treaty’s requirements. In fact, the La Amistad dam is only 19% full, and the Luis L. León dam is at 51% capacity. Farmers in these regions are worried about their crops due to the limited water supply.
Rainfall Helps Mexico Meet Treaty Obligations
Recent rains have helped Mexico fulfill part of its water delivery commitment. The water comes from the La Amistad dam, six Mexican tributaries of the Rio Grande, the Luis L. León dam, and the San Juan River. Mexico still has a large amount of water to deliver by October 24, 2025.
The delivery has eased tensions between the two countries, as former U.S. President Donald Trump had threatened trade sanctions if Mexico didn’t comply. This raises questions about whether the U.S. would act similarly if the situation were reversed, given Trump’s history of imposing import sanctions despite trade agreements like the T-MEC.
Climate Change Raises Questions About the Treaty’s Relevance
Some argue that the 1944 treaty is outdated due to climate change, which has worsened droughts and water scarcity. They suggest revising the treaty to balance international obligations with Mexico’s domestic needs. Various political and social groups are calling for a binational dialogue to review the treaty’s terms and ensure a fair and sustainable water distribution.
Mexico’s water management challenges are compounded by climate change, and the country is investing in improving its water systems. The current water delivery may provide temporary relief, but it also highlights the need for a long-term strategy that works for both countries. As Mexico navigates this complex issue, it must weigh its international commitments against the needs of its own people. Some sources, like the NASA, have warned that the drought in Mexico could worsen. Others have reported on Mexico’s efforts to improve its water infrastructure, such as a $122,600 million project to enhance the country’s water systems.
Some of the key concerns include:
- The impact of the water delivery on Mexico’s northern states.
- The potential for trade sanctions if Mexico fails to meet its treaty obligations.
- The need to revise the 1944 Water Treaty to account for climate change.
Mexico’s decision to deliver water to the U.S. despite its own drought has sparked a national conversation about the country’s priorities and the need for a more sustainable approach to water management.