Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reacted sharply to the US decision to increase tariffs on Mexican steel and aluminum imports from 25% to 50%. Sheinbaum called the measure “unfair”, “unsustainable” and “without legal basis”.
Speaking at a morning press conference on Wednesday (4 June 2025), Sheinbaum stated that the US decision affects not only Mexico, but all other countries except the United Kingdom. Emphasizing that Mexico is a net importer of steel and aluminum, Sheinbaum added, “We import more steel, so this is not fair.”
Reminding that Mexico is a party to the free trade agreement with the US, Sheinbaum argued that the decision taken within this framework “has no legal basis”. She noted that the US justifies the decision on the grounds of national security, but Mexico has maintained good relations with Washington, including on matters of security.
Referring to the impact of the tariffs on the sector, Sheinbaum noted, “Even 25% was causing problems, a 50% tariff would have a much bigger impact.” He also drew attention to the cross-border integration of the two countries' industries and stated that this practice is incompatible with economic realities.
President Sheinbaum announced that she would meet with industry representatives later in the day and that Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard would begin negotiations with his US counterparts this week. “This is not a matter of revenge, but of protecting our industry and jobs,” Sheinbaum stated, adding that if an agreement is not reached, the Mexican government will take further steps next week.
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