Mexico’s Senate has ratified a comprehensive tariff package targeting over 1,400 imported goods, with significant implications for Chinese manufacturers and other trading partners. The legislation, endorsed by President Claudia Sheinbaum as essential for strengthening domestic industries, will impose duties of up to 50% on products ranging from metals and automobiles to clothing and household appliances.
The new tariffs, scheduled for implementation on January 1, 2026, will affect dozens of nations without existing free trade agreements with Mexico, including China, Thailand, India, and Indonesia. This strategic move occurs against the backdrop of ongoing negotiations between Mexican officials and the Trump administration regarding potential US import taxes targeting Mexican exports.
Former President Donald Trump has threatened multiple tariff measures against Mexico, including proposed 50% duties on steel and aluminum, a 25% levy related to fentanyl trafficking prevention, and most recently, a 5% tariff accusation regarding water access for American farmers under an 80-year-old treaty. The United States remains Mexico’s predominant trading partner, adding complexity to these bilateral discussions.
Beijing had previously cautioned Mexico to exercise careful consideration before implementing these tariffs, highlighting the delicate balance Mexico must maintain between protecting domestic production and managing international trade relationships.