Mexico to Raise Tariffs on Chinese Imports Under U.S. Pressure
The proposal marks a new chapter in Mexico’s tariff policy, one that now falls in line with Washington’s pressure.
Quick overview
- Mexico plans to increase tariffs on imports from China, including automobiles, textiles, and plastics, as part of its 2026 budget proposal.
- The initiative aims to protect local manufacturers from subsidized Chinese goods and aligns with Donald Trump's vision of a 'North American Fortress.'
- U.S. officials have expressed support for Mexico's potential shift in trade policy, which seeks to strengthen supply chains across North America.
- China has strongly opposed the proposed tariffs, urging involved countries to maintain independence in their trade decisions.
The move aims to protect domestic industry and aligns with Donald Trump’s call to strengthen a “North American Fortress” against Asian competition.
Mexico’s government is preparing to increase tariffs on imports from China—including automobiles, textiles, and plastics—as part of the 2026 budget proposal to be presented in September, Bloomberg News reported, citing three sources familiar with the matter.
The initiative seeks both to shield local manufacturers from subsidized Chinese goods and to respond to persistent demands from U.S. President Donald Trump. Sources close to the plan indicated that other Asian countries could also face similar tariff hikes.
Although specific rates have yet to be determined, the draft revenue package prepared by Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration is expected to reach Congress before September 8. U.S. officials welcomed the potential shift in trade policy, consistent with the vision of building a “North American Fortress” that curbs imports from China and strengthens supply chains across Mexico, the United States, and Canada. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent voiced his support for the plan.
China’s Response
Beijing strongly rejected the move. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said China “opposes imposing restrictions under the coercion of others” and expressed hope that the countries involved would “maintain independence and handle the matter appropriately.”
The proposal marks a new chapter in Mexico’s tariff policy, one that now falls in line with Washington’s pressure amid a global backdrop of escalating trade tensions.
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