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Tariffs Between the U.S. and Mexico: Where Do Negotiations Stand?
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In a significant development for companies operating in the North American manufacturing and trade ecosystem, the U.S. and Mexico have entered a 30-day suspension period regarding newly proposed tariffs. The decision comes after weeks of tensions sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on all Mexican imports.
With Mexico being a critical hub for nearshore manufacturing and supply chain operations, businesses must closely monitor these negotiations. At Co-Production International (CPI), we are committed to keeping our partners informed on how these changes may impact operations and investment decisions.
The Current Status: A 30-Day Tariff Suspension
The U.S. administration initially justified the tariff proposal by linking it to immigration and drug trafficking concerns, particularly fentanyl entering the U.S. Mexico, in turn, responded with its own tariff threats, signaling its readiness to defend its economic interests.
However, following high-level diplomatic efforts, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and her team successfully negotiated a temporary suspension. Mexico agreed to deploy 10,000 National Guard troops to its northern border to curb illegal crossings and bolster anti-drug trafficking measures. In exchange, the U.S. postponed the tariff implementation, creating a one-month window for negotiations aimed at finding a long-term resolution.
President Sheinbaum’s Response: A Pragmatic Approach
Claudia Sheinbaum’s response to the proposed tariffs has been widely regarded as strategic and measured, contrasting with previous tariff disputes between the two nations. Rather than escalating the confrontation, Sheinbaum has emphasized diplomatic engagement and pragmatic solutions to protect Mexico’s economic stability and trade relationships.
Her administration has also underscored the importance of North American cooperation in resolving shared security and economic challenges. The Confederation of Industrial Chambers of Mexico (CONCAMIN) and the Business Coordinating Council (CCE) have been actively involved in discussions, advocating for policies that safeguard Mexico’s industrial competitiveness.
Implications for Manufacturing in Mexico
For companies manufacturing in Mexico or considering nearshoring, this situation underscores the importance of trade predictability and proactive risk management. A few key takeaways include:
- Short-Term Stability, But Long-Term Uncertainty
While the suspension is a positive step, businesses should prepare for multiple scenarios, including the possibility of tariffs being revisited if negotiations falter. - Nearshoring Still Holds Strong Advantages
Despite geopolitical uncertainties, Mexico remains a strategic manufacturing destination, offering proximity to the U.S., cost-effective labor, and trade incentives such as IMMEX and VAT exemption programs. - Supply Chain Planning is Key
Companies should evaluate their supply chains and explore mitigation strategies such as alternative logistics routes, tariff-exempt programs like Section 321, and leveraging shelter services to navigate regulatory challenges.
What’s Next?
With 30 days to reach a deal, all eyes are on how Mexico and the U.S. will negotiate long-term solutions that balance economic cooperation with security concerns. If no agreement is reached, tariff threats could resurface, impacting key industries such as automotive, electronics, aerospace, and medical devices—sectors where Mexico plays a critical role in the North American supply chain.
At Co-Production International (CPI), we remain closely engaged with industry updates and policy shifts to help businesses navigate Mexico’s manufacturing landscape with confidence. For the latest developments and guidance on how these changes may affect your operations, contact our team for expert insights.