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Hundreds of products, particularly those from China, will face new tariffs after Mexican lawmakers approved a comprehensive package in the Senate on Wednesday. Designed to boost domestic production, according to President Claudia Sheinbaum, these measures are set for implementation on January 1, 2026. The levies will cover goods ranging from metals to automobiles and clothing, impacting dozens of countries globally that do not hold a free trade agreement with Mexico, including key economies like Thailand, India, and Indonesia.
The move comes as Mexico is in negotiations with the US over steep import taxes that President Donald Trump has threatened to impose on the country. The measures will impose tariffs of up to 50% on more than 1,400 products.
The levies will "substantially harm the interests of trading partners, including China," said a spokesperson for Beijing's commerce ministry on Thursday. An investigation into Mexico's trade policy is in progress, they added, urging the country to "correct" its decision.
This week, China also signalled its plans for more involvement with Latin American and Caribbean countries, as it aims to deepen its relationships in the region through trade and innovation.
Chinese companies have been expanding their footprint in Mexico in recent years, with car brands like BYD and MG establishing operations in the country. But Washington has said Beijing may be using Mexico as a way to bypass US tariffs.
Sheinbaum's government is in talks with the Trump administration as it tries to reduce tariffs on the country. They include 50% duties on Mexican steel and aluminium.
Trump has also threatened to impose extra tariffs on Mexico for various reasons, including a 25% levy as part of Washington's measures to pressure countries to do more to stop the flow of the synthetic opioid fentanyl into America.
The US is Mexico's largest trading partner.
