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U.S.–Mexico Water Talks Press On After Trump Threatens 5% Tariff Over Treaty Shortfall

Mexican officials say treaty rules plus drought constraints preclude an immediate release.

Overview

  • Following a Dec. 9 virtual meeting, both governments exchanged proposals on Rio Grande deliveries and scheduled another session for Dec. 10 as negotiations continue without a deal.
  • President Donald Trump demands roughly 200,000 acre-feet be released by Dec. 31 and warns he is prepared to levy a 5% tariff on Mexican imports if the water is not delivered.
  • Mexico maintains it is acting within the 1944 treaty, cites prolonged drought and limited conveyance capacity, and seeks a phased plan that safeguards municipal supply and farm use in Mexico.
  • U.S. officials say the 2020–2025 shortfall approaches 986 million cubic meters; Mexican agencies note extremely low levels at international reservoirs and confirm this year’s deliveries rose with better rains.
  • High-level engagement is set to continue, with additional U.S. delegations visiting Mexico City on Dec. 11 as IBWC/CILA technical teams work to reconcile volumes and timelines.