Mexican President Orders Retaliatory Tariffs in Response to U.S. Trade Measures

MEXICO CITY (Reuters) – Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Saturday that she has directed the country’s economy minister to implement tariff and non-tariff measures in response to the United States’ recent decision to impose across-the-board duties on Mexican goods.

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico seeks collaboration and dialogue rather than confrontation with its northern neighbor. She reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to defending Mexico’s economic interests while maintaining diplomatic relations.

The move follows the U.S. government’s imposition of tariffs, which President Donald Trump attributed to Mexico’s inability to curb fentanyl trafficking into the U.S. and ongoing migration challenges.

Since taking office in October 2024, Sheinbaum’s administration has seized 20 million doses of fentanyl and detained over 10,000 individuals linked to drug trafficking, efforts she highlighted as part of Mexico’s commitment to security and international cooperation.

While tensions between the two nations have escalated, Sheinbaum reaffirmed Mexico’s stance on economic sovereignty while advocating for continued diplomatic engagement.