Mexico Makes Case to Avoid US Tariffs as It Awaits Trump’s Decision/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Monday her administration is awaiting U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision on whether to impose 25% tariffs on Mexican imports. Mexico has stepped up security efforts at the border, extradited key cartel figures, and proposed matching U.S. tariffs on China to maintain trade stability. While Mexico believes it has presented a strong case, Sheinbaum acknowledged that the final decision rests with Trump. Negotiations remain ongoing, and a direct conversation between the two leaders could take place before any final decision.
Mexico’s Trade Talks with US: Quick Look
- Awaiting Decision: Trump could impose 25% tariffs on Mexican imports.
- Security Crackdown: Mexico deployed troops, extradited cartel figures.
- Economic Proposal: Mexico offered to match U.S. tariffs on China.
- Diplomatic Efforts: Mexican officials in constant talks with U.S. counterparts.
- Border Control Success: Migrant crossings at record lows.
- Sheinbaum’s Stance: Mexico has a plan in place for any outcome.
Mexico Makes Final Push to Avoid US Tariffs as Trump Weighs Decision
Mexico Seeks to Preserve Trade Ties
With the U.S. threatening steep tariffs on Mexican imports, President Claudia Sheinbaum reaffirmed Monday that her government has made extensive efforts to meet Washington’s demands. However, the final decision lies with U.S. President Donald Trump, who could implement a 25% tariff as early as Tuesday.
Sheinbaum stated that her administration remains in constant communication with U.S. officials. Mexican Cabinet members overseeing security, trade, and border control have been negotiating with their American counterparts to prevent the tariffs, which could have significant economic consequences for both countries.
“It’s a decision that depends on the United States government, on the United States president,” Sheinbaum said. “Whatever his decision is, we will make our decisions, and there is a plan and unity in Mexico.”
A direct conversation between Sheinbaum and Trump remains possible before any final announcement.
Mexico Highlights Security Cooperation
Mexico has taken a series of high-profile actions to curb drug trafficking and illegal immigration, two key concerns raised by the Trump administration.
- Border Enforcement: Mexico deployed 10,000 National Guard troops along the shared border, significantly reducing the number of migrants arriving at the U.S. border to its lowest level in years.
- Cartel Extraditions: Last week, Mexico sent 29 drug cartel figures to the United States, including a key suspect involved in the 1985 killing of a U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent.
- Drug Lab Shutdowns: Security forces dismantled over 100 synthetic drug labs in Sinaloa, dealing a blow to the powerful Sinaloa Cartel.
These measures are aimed at reinforcing Mexico’s commitment to cooperation while demonstrating that it has taken Trump’s demands seriously.
Economic Counterproposal: Tariffs on China
Beyond security efforts, Mexico has also extended an economic proposal to Washington in an attempt to avoid the looming tariffs. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent revealed that Mexico offered to match U.S. tariffs on China, positioning itself as a trade ally in Washington’s broader economic battle with Beijing.
While the U.S. has long relied on Mexico as a key trading partner, Trump’s push for tariffs stems from his broader strategy of economic nationalism. The White House has framed the move as necessary to protect American jobs and manufacturing, though business leaders warn it could disrupt North American supply chains and increase consumer prices.
Uncertain Outcome as Deadline Nears
Despite Mexico’s concerted efforts, Sheinbaum acknowledged that the final call remains with Trump. “We have made a very important effort of coordination and collaboration, but it depends on the United States,” she said. “We have to respond to this decision.”
Trump had previously threatened tariffs in February but suspended them at the last minute after Mexico increased security efforts. The question remains whether a similar last-minute delay will occur this time or if the U.S. will move forward with the proposed economic penalties.
If implemented, the tariffs would impact billions of dollars in trade and could strain U.S.-Mexico relations, particularly as Sheinbaum navigates her first year in office. The Mexican government has signaled it is prepared for any outcome, but with the deadline approaching, the country is making a final diplomatic push to prevent economic turbulence.
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