The challenges that Mexico faces in the new era of Donald Trump were discussed at the virtual event organized by El Financiero where several experts offered their viewpoints. One of the highlighted points was the possible impact of Trump's tariff policies on the economies of the countries that are part of the USMCA.
In this regard, Kenneth Smith Ramos, who played a key role in the renegotiation of the treaty, pointed out that breaking with the USMCA would not make economic sense and could trigger a trade war in the North American region that would harm all parties involved. Smith Ramos, with extensive experience in international trade negotiations, has held prominent roles in various Mexican government institutions.
On the other hand, Ildefonso Guajardo, former Secretary of Economy under Enrique Peña Nieto's administration, suggested that Mexico should respond to Trump's tariffs by imposing similar taxes on strategic sectors of the US economy, such as corn, pork, and cheese production. This measure could exert pressure on the American president, especially among Republican voters who would be affected.
Additionally, Guajardo specifically mentioned corn growers in the Corn Belt, a region with high corn production, as one of the potential targets of Mexican tariffs. For his part, Smith Ramos warned that the imposition of tariffs would be a clear violation of the USMCA and would have negative consequences for the economies of the three countries involved.
Regarding possible responses from Mexico to Trump's tariffs, Guajardo proposed implementing retaliatory measures in strategic industries in the United States, seeking to balance the situation and protect national interests. However, the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming actions of the US administration remains palpable, causing concern in the region.
