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Mexico Enacts New Tariffs on Non-FTA Imports as 2026 Begins

Officials frame the levies as a bid to safeguard manufacturing jobs.

Overview

  • The measures took effect Thursday and target imports from countries without free-trade agreements with Mexico, with most rates near 35% across autos, parts, textiles, plastics and steel.
  • Reports indicate some China-origin goods face rates up to 50% covering about 1,463 items, including passenger vehicles and components.
  • China’s Ministry of Commerce criticized the policy as protectionist and urged Mexico to reverse what it called unilateral practices.
  • The government projects about $3.76 billion in extra 2026 revenue and cites protection of roughly 350,000 jobs in sensitive sectors.
  • Mexican industry groups warn of higher input costs, and analysts say the move signals alignment with U.S. trade pressure ahead of a USMCA review.