Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is urging the United States to show some understanding toward Mexico as new US tariffs on heavy vehicle imports kick in. She shared her thoughts during her daily press briefing on Monday, warning that these tariffs could create headaches for both countries.
“We’ve already started talks, and I’m hoping for some consideration from the US side,” Sheinbaum said, according to Xinhua news agency. The move comes after US President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on imported heavy vehicles, set to start October 1. Trump aims to boost America’s own manufacturing industry with these protections.
Despite the tension, Sheinbaum highlighted the bright spots in Mexico-US trade. Under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Mexico’s exports have boomed in areas free from tariffs—like products outside finished vehicles, steel, or copper. These sectors enjoy a “zero-tariff” perk, giving Mexico a real edge.
“Trade with the United States stays super important—it’s a huge competitive boost for us,” Sheinbaum added. So far, the USMCA has shielded Mexico from the worst of US tariff policies, helping keep economic ties strong.
About 85% of Mexico’s exports to the US follow USMCA rules, dodging a separate 25% tariff tied to fentanyl issues. That said, Trump has kept tougher measures in place: 50% tariffs on Mexican steel, aluminum, and copper, plus 25% on autos and other goods that don’t meet the trade pact’s standards. On a positive note, he mentioned Mexico’s agreement to drop many non-tariff barriers, which could ease some trade frictions moving forward.
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