Mexico approves tariff increases on Chinese and other Asian imports

On December 10, the Mexican Senate approved an increase in tariffs on imports from China and several other Asian countries starting next year, aimed at supporting local industry. This was reported by La Jornada.

The tariffs will take effect on January 1, 2026. They will apply to products such as steel, automobiles, auto parts, textiles, plastics, etc., and will affect countries that do not have free trade agreements with Mexico, including China, India, South Korea, Thailand, and Indonesia.

The measures include the introduction of tariffs of up to 50% on more than 1,400 goods in 17 sectors.

The proposal was previously approved by the lower house of the country’s parliament.

According to The New York Times, China is the second-largest exporter to Mexico after the US, selling $130 billion worth of goods there last year.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum denied that the tariffs were introduced to appease Washington. According to her, they will help stimulate Mexico’s domestic production, which is a priority for the country, and reduce the large trade deficit with China.

China condemned the approval of these tariffs. On December 11, the country’s Ministry of Commerce said that the tariff increase would “significantly harm” it and other Mexican trading partners. The ministry called on the country to “correct its misguided practice of unilateralism and protectionism as soon as possible.” In addition, it was noted that an investigation into trade barriers, which the ministry launched in September against Mexico, is currently ongoing.

It should be recalled that at the end of November 2025, Canada announced additional protective measures to support steel producers. In December, the country introduced a new 25% tariff on steel products.