North Capital Forum

The global economy has witnessed a significant rise in interconnectedness, driven by advancements in technology, trade liberalization, and the expansion of supply chains. In this interconnected world, the smooth and efficient movement of goods and people across borders is vital for sustained economic growth and development. Recognizing the critical role of border infrastructure and efficiency in this context, this panel assembles a diverse group of experts and stakeholders from various sectors.

The primary objective of this panel is to highlight the multifaceted significance of border infrastructure and efficiency in facilitating international trade. Efficient border operations and infrastructure play a pivotal role in reducing transaction costs, bolstering competitiveness and expanding market access for businesses. By delving into the impact of border infrastructure on trade facilitation, the panel aims to uncover strategies and best practices that can lead to streamlined cross-border processes and enhanced efficiency.

Affiliates: Atlantic Council Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center and the UTEP Hunt Institute for Global Competitiveness

Speakers:

Mayra Maldonado, Hunt Institute, UTEP

Jason Marczak, Atlantic Council, Adrienne Arsht Latin American Center

Debbie Seguin, U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Reuben Smith-Vaughan, Amazon

Claudia Ávila, Agencia Nacional de Aduanas de México ANAM

Karyl Fowler, Transmute

The strengths of the United States, Canada, and Mexico, offer a diverse and integrated market and long-term growth. By embracing the collective potential of North America, investors can tap into stability, innovation, and economic opportunities, positioning themselves for success in the region.

The panel “Brand New Day: Investing for Success in North America’s Tomorrow” discusses the unique advantages of the North American region from an investment perspective given current macro conditions, as well as the main challenges (including sustainability, equality, inclusion, and technological development)

Affiliate: QED Investors

Speakers:

Fernando González, QED Investors

Leticia Jáuregui, NCF23 Fellow, Meta

Bárbara González Briseño, Bitso

Martin Cabrera, NCF23 Fellow, Cabrera Capital

Rubén Coppel, BanCoppel

Deepak Chhugani, Nuvocargo

The panel will focus on the significant findings and outcomes of the North American Forum (NAF) meeting held on October 2-3, 2023, in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico. Established in 2005, the NAF brings together influential thinkers from Canada, Mexico, and the United States, with the goal of advancing a collective vision for North America and fostering improved relations among the three countries. Participants explore the interconnected goals of security, prosperity, and enhanced quality of life, identifying actions that governments and private entities can take to build societal resilience. While the panel comprises non-governmental actors, they maintain channels of communication with their respective governments. Distinguished experts and senior representatives from all three governments are invited, fostering a diverse range of perspectives. The panel will feature participants of the 2023 NAF.

Affiliates: NAF

Speakers:

Shannon O’Neil, Council on Foreign Relations

Goldy Hyder, Business Council of Canada

Jaime Zabludovsky K., Executive VP, IQOM; Co-Chair, NAF

Richard Kiy, Institute of the Americas

A.I. has undoubtedly expanded beyond industry and marketing environments to significant learning and working activities. Governments, academics and the industry are now looking at the potential of A.I. to create a more equitable and sustainable world by generating new opportunities for individuals and communities. This panel will discuss what inclusive growth means in the context of A.I. and the role of this technology in empowering diverse communities. Experts will share thoughts on how A.I. can improve productivity and efficiency and boost economic opportunities for more people in North America. The conversation will also consider how A.I. should be developed and deployed in an ethical and responsible manner, to ensure that it benefits everyone in society.

Affiliate: Meta

Speakers:

Paola Rojas, Televisa

Kevin Chan, Meta

Courtney McColgan, Runa

Alejandro Noriega, ProsperIA

Eduardo Clark, Government of Mexico City

The USMCA is a key driver of North American competitiveness and provides the set of rules and market access commitments that also provide the predictability that underpins trade and investment. North America has come into focus for the Biden Administration as an opportunity to build more resilient supply chains, expand manufacturing, and strengthen competitiveness and innovation. With this year marking the midpoint toward the first USMCA review in 2026, this panel will assess progress and the key opportunities and challenges to realizing a more competitive, inclusive and sustainable North American economic relationship.

Affiliate: Brookings

Speakers:

Joshua P. Meltzer, Brookings Institution

Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Akin Gump

Louise Blais, NCF23 Fellow, Business Council of Canada

Ana Lilia Cervantes, GEPP

Francisco González, INA

John Orr, Canadian Pacific Kansas City

The session titled "Trailblazers: The People Who Helped Shape North America" aims to acknowledge the contributions of five visionary leaders from Mexico, Canada, and the United States. These leaders, who have made remarkable strides in various sectors including public service, private industry, and social development, have played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for the incredibly dynamic North American region.

The North Capital Forum is proud to present the North American Trailblazer Award 2023 to the following individuals:

Ms. Carla Hills, Former U.S. Trade Representative

Mr. Carlos Gutierrez, Former U.S. Secretary of Commerce

Mr. Jaime Serra Puche, Former Mexican Secretary of Commerce & Industrial Development

Mr. Juan Gallardo, Chairman at Cultiba, and Head of “Cuarto de Junto” (The Room Next Door)

Mr. Thomas d’Aquino, Former President of the Business Council of Canada

Following the award ceremony, the NCF23 Trailblazers will share some words with the audience. We will then have a one-on-one conversation with Carla Hills, focused on the future of the trilateral relationship between the three nations. Their unique insights and experiences will contribute to the ongoing advancement of The North American Way.

Ensuring that a wider range of individuals have access to capital and investment opportunities is a fundamental requirement in North America's business landscape. When companies prioritize financial inclusion, it opens doors to reaching untapped markets and growing their customer base. At the same time, this helps bridge the gap between different economic segments, leading to improved financial stability and ultimately contributing to the overall growth of the economy.

Speakers:

Moris Dieck, Moris Dieck Media

Pedro de Garay, GBM

Susan Greenwell, MetLife

Regina Reyes-Heroles, Milenio

Michael Piwowar, Milken Institute

Mayors are champions of North American integration. Cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States are key nodes in flows of innovation, talent, investment, and supply chains across the continent. With the USMCA and the drive to nearshore manufacturing away from China, North American cities have new opportunities to strengthen their position in resilient supply chains.

Beyond economic development, mayors cultivate cross-border collaboration and technical partnerships on common challenges, including climate, migration, mobility, infrastructure, public safety, countering trafficking, and defending democracy.

City & State Diplomacy in North America exemplify cooperation based on pragmatism, problem-solving, and experience-sharing which often transcends political cycles. Regardless of their country’s national politics, mayors connect.

Semiconductors serve as the foundation for nearly all industries, acting as a central pillar of the global economy. The current reliance on a limited number of suppliers and production centers located in geopolitically sensitive regions has introduced significant risk to North America's endeavors in energy transition, digitalization, and technological innovation. The discussion titled "Chip Thrills: The Role of North America in Semiconductor Rivalries," featuring Chris Miller, Author of "Chip War: The Fight for the World's Most Critical Technology" and recipient of The Financial Times Business Book of the Year award, will focus on the pivotal role that chips play in shaping both the present and the future of the North American region. The conversation will delve into the implications of bringing semiconductor production closer to home, bolstering North America's resilience and reducing dependence on foreign influences, particularly in an increasingly intricate and uncertain global landscape.

Affiliate: Tecnológico de Monterrey

Speakers:

Chris Miller, author "Chip War"

Juan Pablo Murra, Tec de Monterrey

At the heart of The North American Way lies collaboration, interwoven with cultural bonds, family connections, regional values, and a shared history. Strong leadership across various industries paves the way for tangible progress, exemplifying unity within diversity and shaping a thriving business landscape.

The panel discussion, "A Sky Full of Stars: Mapping the North American Way," gains even more significance as it hosts this year's event Co-Chairs. Co-Chairs, selected based on their business acumen, academic pursuits, and/or societal contributions, stand as driving forces in strengthening the relationship between Mexico, the United States, and Canada. This discussion not only sheds light on current accomplishments but also charts the course for future innovations, heightened efficiency, economic growth, and the essential principles of social responsibility in the region.

Speakers:

Alejandro Ramírez, NCF23 cochair, Mexico; CEO, Cinépolis

Susan Segal, NCF23 cochair, USA; President and CEO, AS/COA

Rob Wildeboer, NCF23 cochair, Canada; Founder and CEO, Martinrea International