Trump imposes 30% tariffs on Mexico: Sheinbaum’s government is already negotiating in Washington

The President of the United States, Donald Trump, officially announced on Saturday, July 12, 2025, a new trade measure against Mexico: starting on August 1, all Mexican products entering US territory will be subject to a 30% tariff, in addition to other possible sectoral taxes.

The decision was notified through a letter sent to the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, where the U.S. President argues that the new tariff is a consequence of the alleged “lack of action” by the Mexican government against drug cartels and the fentanyl crisis affecting his country.

“Mexico has not yet stopped the cartels that want to turn all of North America into a playground for drug trafficking,” Trump wrote in the letter with White House letterhead, leaked to international media.

Mexico responds: there are negotiations underway

Hours after the announcement, the Ministry of Economy confirmed that Mexico is already negotiating tariffs in Washington. A high-level delegation, led by Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard and officials from the Treasury and Economy, is participating in working sessions with U.S. authorities.

Among the points that could be on the table are:

• Specific exclusions for key sectors such as copper, pharmaceutical products, or automotive manufacturing.
• Alternatives that allow exemptions for companies that decide to install their production within the US territory.
• An eventual comprehensive agreement that combines commitments on border security, combating drug trafficking, and bilateral trade.

What does the new 30% tariff imply?

If applied as announced, the new 30% tax would be a severe blow to Mexican exports, especially in sectors such as automotive, agro-industrial, and manufacturing. The measure represents a significant increase compared to the current tariffs established under the USMCA (T-MEC).

In addition, Trump warned that any attempt by Mexico to respond with its own tariffs will be countered with additional tariffs of up to 30%.

The president’s letter also emphasizes that the “transshipment” of Mexican goods through third countries to evade the new tariffs will not be allowed.