Mexico Prepares Retaliatory Tariffs Amid U.S. Trade Dispute

MEXICO CITY – Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed confidence on Wednesday that the U.S. will not impose tariffs on Mexican imports as President Donald Trump has threatened, but confirmed that her administration has a response plan in place if necessary.

The White House has reiterated plans to impose 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada unless both countries take stronger measures to curb migration and drug trafficking. While Sheinbaum downplayed the likelihood of such tariffs taking effect on Feb. 1, sources indicate Mexico is prepared to retaliate with tariffs of 5%, 10%, or 20% on select U.S. goods.

Mexico’s retaliatory tariffs would target U.S. agricultural products like pork, cheese, apples, and Bourbon whiskey, along with steel and aluminum—products that significantly impact regions that voted heavily for Trump. However, the automotive industry would initially be exempt.

U.S. and Mexican officials have been in discussions since Trump’s return to the White House on Jan. 20, with Mexico highlighting its intensified crackdown on migration and drug trafficking. Mexico has warned that U.S. tariffs could cost 400,000 American jobs and raise prices for consumers.