Overview
- USTR’s public docket logged 833 filings through Nov. 3, with reports indicating a strong majority arguing Section 232 and IEEPA duties on North American trade conflict with the accord’s tariff-free structure.
- More than 200 Business Roundtable CEOs asked Washington to remove Section 232 and IEEPA tariffs on Mexico and Canada, citing a 7.3% drop in bilateral trade since March 2025, while also alleging Mexico denies national treatment in energy, aviation slots at MEX, and telecom spectrum fees.
- The American Iron and Steel Institute proposed a common external tariff on non-North American steel, stronger rules of origin for melted-and-poured steel, and tighter import monitoring, as U.S. customs currently apply 50% Section 232 duties on steel, aluminum and copper with certain exemptions.
- Mexico’s auto chamber AMIA urged reciprocal standing to file labor complaints under the Rapid Response mechanism and pressed the U.S. to honor parallel letters that shield qualifying Mexican autos from Section 232 actions.
- Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard said Mexico seeks targeted adjustments rather than a broad reopening and will define negotiation limits with the Senate in January, as U.S. consultations on Mexico’s energy policies remain active and could move toward an arbitral panel.