Analysis On U.S. Tariffs & More

The recent announcement by the United States imposing a 25% tariff on all imported products from Mexico has resonated widely within the international trade community and the general public worldwide. This measure aims to reshape the dynamics of commercial exchange between the two countries. However, the implementation of these tariffs has been postponed until further negotiations take place between the neighboring nations to review matters of common interest.

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In essence, tariffs function as a tax on imported products. In this case, U.S. importers will bear the cost of this tax when bringing goods from Mexico, potentially leading to higher prices for consumers and businesses in the U.S. alike.?

Typically, these products benefit from exemptions under the USMCA agreement. However, with the imposition of these tariffs, duty exemptions could be set aside, enforcing the standard 25% duty on imported goods.

Mexico sends more than 80% of its exports to its northern neighbor, making the U.S. its largest trading partner—and vice versa. Beyond the oil and energy industries, the major sectors most affected by these tariff increases are:

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Automotive and Electronics

• In 2023, Mexico exported approximately $200 billion worth of automotive and electronics goods, representing 46% of its shipments to the U.S.
• Car parts, trucks, screens, medical equipment, and computers will face increased costs and potential operational disruptions, as companies in these industries rely on sophisticated processes designed to manage duty exemptions.

Agricultural Products and Beverages

• Fresh fruits, vegetables, and alcoholic beverages such as beer and tequila are among the most impacted products.
• In recent years, U.S. imports of these beverages reached $8.5 billion in commercial value, a significant figure for non-essential food and beverage products.

Manufacturing Sector

• Steel, aluminum, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals are key products within the manufacturing sector that could experience significant effects.
• In 2023, Mexico exported a total of $200 billion in manufactured goods to the U.S., representing 46% of its total exports.

China’s New Tariffs On U.S. Goods – What You Need to Know

After the U.S. imposed an additional 10% tariff on all Chinese goods, China responded by announcing a series of tariffs on select U.S. imports, along with other controls on key exports. China’s additional tariffs apply to approximately $20 billion worth of U.S. imports.

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Affected Export Controls

China has imposed a 15% tariff on coal and liquefied natural gas, as well as a 10% tariff on crude oil, agricultural equipment, and large-engine cars imported from the U.S.

Additionally, China is implementing export controls on certain rare earth elements and metals used in high-tech gadgets and clean energy production.

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The Numbers Behind the New Tariffs

Overall, China’s tariffs impact approximately $20 billion in annual U.S. imports.

New Import Tariffs & Guidelines For Retailers & eCommerce Operations Into Mexico

E-commerce has been a key channel for importing products into Mexico. However, as of early 2025, new regulations have taken effect, modifying this framework.

The Ministry of Economy has implemented anti-dumping measures and introduced new guidelines for e-commerce platforms and courier companies to better regulate and control imports under de-minimis exemptions. These changes will impact importers, consumers, and logistics operators alike. We have conducted an analysis to assess the potential impact of these exemptions in the near future.

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Anti-Dumping Resolution on Footwear

On September 30, 2024, the Ministry of Economy issued a preliminary anti-dumping resolution for footwear imports originating from China.

As part of this resolution, additional compensatory fees have been established for various types of footwear, including:

• Synthetic boots
• Basic, formal, and dress sandals
• Choclo textile sneakers with synthetic uppers
• Casual footwear made of textile materials

These goods will be subject to compensatory fees ranging from 12.13% to 17.99%, in addition to the existing 35% tariff.

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Authorized Customs for Footwear Import Operations

Beyond the compensatory fees, e-commerce footwear imports must now comply with stricter regulations. These products can only enter the country through authorized ports of entry, as outlined in the latest resolution under Annex 21 of Mexico’s General Foreign Trade Rules.

Courier and Parcel Companies

Courier and parcel transportation companies operating under the e-commerce scheme must register through a simplified procedure. This registration will be valid for two years and is required to continue operating under current regulations, as specified in Rule 3.7.3 of the General Foreign Trade Rules.

Simplified Administrative Procedure: Permitted Goods

Under Rule 3.7.5 of the General Foreign Trade Rules, specific products can still be imported through this procedure, including:

• Goods classified under Chapter 87 of the TIGIE (General Import and Export Tax Tariff)
• Products subject to compensatory fees
• Goods that are difficult to identify, such as powders, liquids, or pharmaceutical forms (pills, capsules, granules, etc.), which require physical or chemical analysis to determine their origin and composition

Applicable Contributions for Imports via Courier and Parcel Services

Imports made through the simplified procedure will be subject to a global tariff of 19%, along with any additional contributions established under Rule 3.7.5 of the General Foreign Trade Rules.

Impact of These Changes on E-commerce Imports

The new regulations will have a significant impact on e-commerce and import operations, including:

• Product restrictions: Certain products will face limitations under simplified import schemes.
• Increased costs: Compensatory fees and the 19% tariff will make some imported products more expensive.
• Stronger customs control: The entry of goods via e-commerce will be more strictly monitored at authorized customs.

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It is essential for businesses and consumers to stay informed about these updated rules and optimize their import processes to minimize costs and avoid customs-related issues.

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