In a move to bolster domestic industries and reduce reliance on foreign imports, Mexico’s Senate has approved a bill imposing new tariffs on goods from China and several other Asian nations without free trade agreements with Mexico.
The legislation, passed on Wednesday evening with 76 votes in favor, 5 against, and 35 abstentions, introduces levies ranging from 5% to 50% on more than 1,400 product categories.
These tariffs will take effect starting January 1, 2026, targeting items such as automobiles, auto parts, textiles, clothing, metals, plastics, steel, footwear, and appliances.
The affected countries include China, India, South Korea, Thailand, and Indonesia, among others lacking trade pacts with Mexico.
Mexican officials estimate that the measures will generate additional revenue of approximately $3.76 billion in 2026, helping to address the country’s fiscal deficit. This decision follows heightened U.S. tariffs under the incoming administration, aligning Mexico with broader efforts to counter perceived unfair trade practices from Asia.
President Claudia Sheinbaum emphasized that the tariffs are not intended to provoke international tensions. “We have great respect for China and very good relations with them,” she told reporters on Thursday. “The reason for these legal adjustments is to boost domestic production.”
In response, China’s Commerce Ministry expressed strong opposition, stating that the tariffs will “substantially harm the interests of trading partners, including China.” The ministry urged Mexico to rectify these “unilateralist and protectionist practices” promptly and announced an ongoing investigation into Mexico’s trade policies.
This development underscores escalating global trade frictions, particularly in the wake of U.S. policy shifts, as Mexico seeks to safeguard its manufacturing sector while maintaining diplomatic ties.
Original article
Comments