COSTEP positions Rio South Texas as a strategic gateway for North American trade during NASCO 2026

During the 2026 NASCO Continental Reunion, leaders from Canada, Mexico and the United States gathered to analyze the strategic corridors, infrastructure and connections that are defining North America’s competitive future.

The event opened a regional conversation around the factors that are now key to strengthening the continent’s economic integration, especially at a time when supply chains, cross-border logistics and trade resilience have become priorities for companies, governments and economic development organizations.

Strategic corridors for a more integrated region

Among the main topics addressed during the reunion were USMCA resilience, North American trade integration, energy security, agricultural competitiveness, food security, critical transportation infrastructure and the strengthening of cross-border trade flows.

One of the most relevant panels of the day was “Moving What Matters: Corridors, Infrastructure, and Trade Flows,” focused on the role that railways, highways, ports and border infrastructure play as essential elements to keep North America connected and competitive.

The conversation highlighted the importance of efficient logistics corridors, modern infrastructure and a continental vision capable of facilitating the movement of goods, strengthening supply chains and responding to new trade and investment dynamics.

COSTEP represents Rio South Texas before continental leaders

Alma Saldana, Assistant Director of Economic Development at COSTEP, Council for South Texas Economic Progress, participated in the event, representing the Rio South Texas Region before economic, logistics and institutional leaders from the three countries.

Her participation helped strengthen relationships with key continental development stakeholders, while positioning South Texas as one of North America’s most strategic regions for international trade, manufacturing, logistics and nearshoring-driven growth.

Rio South Texas’ location, direct connection with Mexico and access to cross-border logistics infrastructure make it a key point for companies seeking to operate within a binational platform, close to industrial markets, suppliers and high-value trade routes.

South Texas, a binational platform for growth

COSTEP’s participation in the 2026 NASCO Continental Reunion reinforces South Texas’ relevance within conversations about the future of trade in North America.

In an environment where companies are looking for more resilient supply chains, greater proximity to their markets and more efficient operations, Rio South Texas stands out as a region with strategic advantages to attract investment, facilitate industrial expansion and connect opportunities between Mexico and the United States.

Under the message “One Region. Two Countries. One Future,” Rio South Texas continues to strengthen its role as a binational platform for economic development, advanced manufacturing, logistics and North American trade integration.