Mexico is considering tariffs on Chinese imports to negotiate with the U.S. and avoid impending tariffs from President Trump. A delegation is in Washington discussing this strategy, emphasizing the importance of the USMCA agreement. Trump has connected tariff discussions to broader immigration issues, impacting Mexico’s position.
Mexico is considering implementing tariffs on Chinese imports as part of its strategy to avert the 25% tariffs proposed by President Trump, scheduled to take effect in early March. Officials from Mexico’s economy and finance ministries are currently in Washington discussing potential tariffs amid ongoing negotiations. President Claudia Sheinbaum highlighted that her administration is exploring various avenues to secure significant agreements with the U.S. by February 28, potentially including a direct conversation with Trump.
The Mexican delegation extended their stay in Washington after Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard met with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick the previous week. Reports indicate that during these discussions, the U.S. suggested that Mexico impose its own tariffs on Chinese goods to mitigate American tariff threats. Historically, Mexico has levied tariffs against nations with which it lacks free trade agreements, a tactic it may again utilize.
Tony Payan noted on Twitter the expectation that the U.S. would require Mexico to limit Chinese investment and impose additional tariffs, stating, “As predicted, the USA & Trump will demand that Mexico limit China’s investment in the country & impose tariffs on all things Chinese.”
In prioritizing trade relations with the U.S., Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of the USMCA trade agreement. Trump has insisted that both Mexico and Canada enhance measures against the flow of migrants and fentanyl into the U.S., connected to the potential tariffs. After initially planning to impose tariffs on February 1, this deadline was pushed back, while a separate 10% tariff on all imports from China has been enacted.
In summary, Mexico is actively exploring the imposition of tariffs on Chinese imports to negotiate with the U.S. and avoid significant tariffs from the Trump administration. The efforts are part of a broader strategy to reinforce trade relations under the USMCA agreement. Ongoing negotiations include potential discussions with Trump and comply with U.S. demands regarding trade and immigration enforcement.
Original Source: www.ttnews.com
