The tariffs imposed on Mexican products will have a significant impact on restaurants located in the border area of Mexico, as approximately 40% of customers cross from the United States to consume food. Ignacio Alarcón, president of Canirac, pointed out that these tariffs will directly affect food prices, with diners bearing that cost if the taxes remain in place.
Alarcón highlighted that the tariffs will affect both diners and the supply chain of the restaurant industry, as 15% of products are imported and impact the supply of food, equipment, and meat, among other products. In light of this situation, Mexican restaurateurs, not only at the border, will need to seek national alternatives to replace American products.
For her part, President Claudia Sheinbaum plans to announce tariff and non-tariff measures in response to this situation. Meanwhile, restaurateurs in the United States have requested Donald Trump to exempt food products from tariffs on Mexico and Canada, arguing that these taxes could severely affect the food industry and force consumers to pay more at restaurants.
Jaime Chamberlain, owner of a distribution company representing Mexican agricultural producers, predicts an increase in the prices of imported products due to the tariffs, complicating support for farmers. In response to these changes, restaurants have begun stockpiling non-perishable products in anticipation of future price increases, although uncertainty applies to products like meat and fruits from Canada and Mexico.
The imposition of tariffs by the United States on products from Canada and Mexico has generated concern in the food industry, both at the border and throughout the country, as an increase in prices and a reduction in the supply of imported products is expected. Restaurateurs face the challenge of adjusting their menus, finding alternative suppliers, and adopting strategies to mitigate the economic losses that may arise due to these measures.
