Mexico braces for trade tariffs; Sheinbaum vows resilience
The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, announced that the country has three plans in place in case a 25% tariff is imposed on Mexican goods by the United States. She emphasized that her government is maintaining a "cool head." According to the announcements, U.S. President Donald Trump is set to implement the tariffs on Saturday.
White House spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed on Friday that the U.S. will impose 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada on Saturday. However, she did not respond to questions about potential exemptions. The spokesperson later stated that the tariffs will also include oil and gas, although the rate for these will be 10%.
- We will always defend the dignity of our people, respect for our sovereignty and a dialogue as equals without subordination - said Mexican President, Claudia Sheinbaum during a press conference. She added that her country is ready for further negotiations with Donald Trump's administration.
Mexico's plans for tariffs
President Trump justified the imposition of tariffs as a punitive measure for illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking, a synthetic opioid that causes many deaths in the U.S.
Mexico, Canada, and China are the largest trading partners of the U.S., and the new tariffs could disrupt supply chains in North America, affecting industries such as automotive, and raise consumer prices for food and fuel.
Mexico, as Sheinbaum emphasized, has prepared three action plans in case Trump's proposed tariffs are implemented.
Trump threatens trade war
Donald Trump does not intend to stop with Canada and Mexico. He plans to impose 10% tariffs on goods from China. As confirmed by the U.S. President, the European Union is also on the list of targets.
Donald Trump reiterated on Friday previously expressed criticisms regarding - as he put it - the "horrible treatment" of America by the EU despite American financial contributions to Europe's defence and aid.
