The Secretary of Economy of Mexico, Marcelo Ebrard, traveled to Washington seeking to avoid the tariffs that the United States plans to impose on Mexican steel and aluminum. Despite his efforts, no clear agreement was reached with the U.S. government. According to Mateo Diego-Fernández, partner at AGON and T-MEC panelist, the situation regarding the tariffs that would take effect on March 12 remains to be defined.
The 25 percent tariffs will affect most Mexican exports to the United States, except for products covered by the T-MEC. This means that goods not meeting the origin rules of the treaty could face additional tariffs. In particular, the Mexican automotive industry would be impacted, as a significant percentage of light vehicles and auto parts do not comply with the established origin rules.
Given this situation, there is a need for Mexico to take measures in response to the tariffs imposed by the United States, considering economic and political aspects. While the tariffs could benefit metal plants in U.S. territory, they would also create negative effects on Mexican steel products, raising prices for manufacturers that rely on these materials.
U.S. President Donald Trump has decided to impose a 25 percent tariff on imports of steel and aluminum, raising concerns in the Mexican economy. Although a pause was agreed upon for the application of these tariffs on products covered by the T-MEC, a reciprocal imposition of tariffs is expected to begin on April 2. Trump's order does not provide exceptions for Canada and Mexico, despite both countries being important suppliers of steel and aluminum to the United States.
