The former Secretary of Economy of Mexico, Idelfonso Guajardo, shared his opinion on the threat of tariffs imposed by former United States President Donald Trump, urging Mexico to prepare to respond strongly. Guajardo recalled President López Obrador's decisive response to a similar situation in 2019, when Trump threatened to impose tariffs if migration to the United States was not curtailed.
At that time, López Obrador deployed 27,000 national guards at the southern border, showing willingness for dialogue but also firmness in defending Mexico's interests. Guajardo emphasized that Mexico must be prepared to respond with tariffs if necessary, following the rules established in the Treaty between Mexico, the United States, and Canada (USMCA). The former Secretary of Economy explained that this response would not be interpreted as a tariff war but as a legitimate defense against aggression that violates the treaty.
Guajardo emphasized the importance of the Government being firm in its stance and being willing to negotiate with Trump based on a position of respect and reciprocity. For him, the refusal to respond with tariffs could affect Mexico's ability to sit at the negotiating table in future reviews of the USMCA. Therefore, he proposed that Mexico prepare a list of American products to which it could impose tariffs in the event of escalating trade tensions.
In conclusion, Idelfonso Guajardo urged the Mexican Government to be prepared to respond with tariffs if they are forced to do so, using the legal tools available and maintaining a stance of firmness and respect in any negotiations with the United States.
