Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, stood firm on Tuesday against President-elect Trump’s stated intentions to impose 25 percent tariffs on all Mexican exports, highlighting the negative implications for both nations. She argued that such tariffs would not only damage both economies but fail to resolve issues like illegal migration and drug trafficking, which Trump has cited as motivations for his proposed measures.
Sheinbaum urged for constructive dialogue rather than a confrontational approach, suggesting that negotiations could lead to better outcomes for both countries. She noted that illegal migration into the U.S. from Mexico has significantly decreased over the past year due to Mexico’s own initiatives and called for the U.S. to invest more in addressing the root causes of migration by focusing on peace building and development rather than military spending.
Additionally, Sheinbaum pointed out the interdependence of the U.S. and Mexican economies, with many American industries, including automotive and electronics, reliant on exports to Mexico. She stressed the dangers of a potential tariff war, warning that retaliatory measures could lead to overarching economic harm, particularly affecting manufacturing operations that benefit both nations.
The Mexican president not only highlighted Mexico’s ongoing efforts to curb the smuggling of fentanyl but urged a recognition that the primary issue lies with the market demand for such substances in the U.S. She emphasized the need for collaborative international efforts to address the underlying factors contributing to the drug crisis, invoking a call for a unified and thoughtful response rather than unilateral tariffs.
As tensions rise, the emphasis on dialogue and cooperation is seen as a critical approach that may help mitigate adverse outcomes for both countries in the face of protectionist policies.
Simon Romero is a Times correspondent focusing on Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. He is based in Mexico City.
Sheinbaum urged for constructive dialogue rather than a confrontational approach, suggesting that negotiations could lead to better outcomes for both countries. She noted that illegal migration into the U.S. from Mexico has significantly decreased over the past year due to Mexico’s own initiatives and called for the U.S. to invest more in addressing the root causes of migration by focusing on peace building and development rather than military spending.
Additionally, Sheinbaum pointed out the interdependence of the U.S. and Mexican economies, with many American industries, including automotive and electronics, reliant on exports to Mexico. She stressed the dangers of a potential tariff war, warning that retaliatory measures could lead to overarching economic harm, particularly affecting manufacturing operations that benefit both nations.
The Mexican president not only highlighted Mexico’s ongoing efforts to curb the smuggling of fentanyl but urged a recognition that the primary issue lies with the market demand for such substances in the U.S. She emphasized the need for collaborative international efforts to address the underlying factors contributing to the drug crisis, invoking a call for a unified and thoughtful response rather than unilateral tariffs.
As tensions rise, the emphasis on dialogue and cooperation is seen as a critical approach that may help mitigate adverse outcomes for both countries in the face of protectionist policies.
Simon Romero is a Times correspondent focusing on Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. He is based in Mexico City.
