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Mexico Approves Up to 50% Tariffs on Chinese and Other Asian Imports

The move positions Mexico closer to U.S. trade priorities ahead of the USMCA review.

Overview

  • Final congressional approval sets duties on more than 1,400 product lines that start on January 1, 2026 and expand through the year, with most rates capped at 35% and select items at 50%.
  • Targeted categories include automobiles, auto parts, textiles, clothing, plastics, steel, appliances and electronics, with Chinese-made cars facing the steepest 50% rate.
  • Mexico’s finance ministry projects roughly 52 billion pesos in additional revenue in 2026 from the tariff package.
  • Lawmakers softened an earlier draft after pushback from China and domestic industry, and the legislation gives the Economy Ministry authority to adjust tariffs on non-FTA countries.
  • China formally criticized the measures, Mexican business groups warned of supply chain disruptions and inflation risks, and analysts linked the policy to U.S. pressure before the USMCA review.