Mexico Joins China and Canada in Retaliation Against U.S. Tariffs/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that Mexico will impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods in response to President Donald Trump’s new 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian imports. While China imposed countermeasures immediately, Mexico has opted to wait until Sunday to reveal its specific targets. Sheinbaum criticized the U.S. decision, warning it will harm both economies and escalate trade tensions.
Mexico’s Trade War Response: Quick Look
- Retaliatory Tariffs: Mexico to impose duties on U.S. goods starting Sunday.
- U.S. Tariff Hike: Trump enacts 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian imports.
- Sheinbaum’s Criticism: Calls U.S. tariffs unjustified and harmful to both nations.
- China’s Response: Beijing imposes tariffs on U.S. agriculture and expands trade controls.
- Mexico-U.S. Drug Tensions: White House accuses Mexico of failing to stop cartels.
- Economic Impact: Concerns rise over inflation, supply chains, and job losses.
- Diplomatic Strain: Mexico insists on cooperation but prepares countermeasures.
Mexico Joins China and Canada in Retaliation Against U.S. Tariffs
Sheinbaum Announces Retaliatory Tariffs on U.S. Goods
Mexico is set to retaliate against U.S. trade policies, with President Claudia Sheinbaum confirming on Tuesday that her government will impose tariffs on American products in response to President Donald Trump’s new import taxes.
While China acted immediately after Washington’s decision, Mexico has chosen a more measured approach, delaying its announcement until Sunday. The move signals that Mexico still hopes for a resolution but is prepared to respond decisively.
“There is no motive or reason, nor justification that supports this decision that will affect our people and our nations,” Sheinbaum said, condemning Trump’s tariff increase.
U.S. Tariff Hike Sparks Global Response
The U.S. tariffs, which took effect at midnight on Tuesday, apply a 25% duty on Mexican and Canadian imports, while Canadian energy products face an additional 10% import tax. These measures are part of Trump’s broader trade strategy, which also includes raising tariffs on Chinese goods to 20% across the board.
China quickly responded, imposing up to 15% in additional tariffs on key U.S. agricultural products such as chicken, pork, soy, and beef. It also expanded restrictions on U.S. companies operating in China. Beijing’s new tariffs will take effect on March 10, further intensifying trade tensions.
Sheinbaum Rebukes U.S. Drug War Allegations
In addition to trade tensions, relations between Mexico and the U.S. have been strained by accusations from Washington regarding Mexico’s handling of drug cartels. A White House statement accused the Mexican government of having an “intolerable relationship” with drug traffickers, suggesting that cartel influence persists due to government inaction.
Sheinbaum strongly rejected the claim, calling it “offensive, defamatory, and without support.” She listed recent achievements in Mexico’s anti-drug operations, including the seizure of over a ton of fentanyl, the dismantling of 329 methamphetamine labs, and the extradition of 29 cartel figures to the U.S.
“We collaborate to avoid illegal drug trafficking to the United States, but as we have said on multiple occasions, that country’s government must take responsibility too for the crisis of opioid consumption that has caused so many deaths in the United States,” she added.
Economic Consequences and Potential Fallout
Sheinbaum warned that the U.S. tariffs would not only hurt Mexican exporters but also American businesses and consumers. Higher import costs could drive up prices on goods sourced from Mexico, while retaliatory tariffs could impact U.S. industries reliant on cross-border trade.
“It’s inconceivable that they don’t think about the damage this is going to cause to United States citizens and businesses with the increase in prices for things produced in our country,” Sheinbaum said. “Also, the damage it will cause by stopping job creation in both countries. No one wins with this decision.”
What’s Next in the Trade War?
With China’s tariffs taking effect next week and Mexico’s retaliatory measures set to be announced on Sunday, trade tensions are expected to escalate further. Canada has yet to declare its response but may follow suit.
As the trade war expands, economists warn of potential inflation, disrupted supply chains, and economic instability in North America. Whether these tariffs will force negotiations or lead to prolonged economic conflict remains uncertain.
For now, all eyes are on Mexico City, where Sheinbaum will reveal the full scope of her government’s countermeasures in the coming days.
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