By Edith Loyola 
The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, addressed recent statements by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday, following his announcement of plans to impose a 25% tariff on all products from Mexico and Canada. Speaking from the National Palace, Sheinbaum warned of the economic risks associated with this measure and stressed the importance of seeking joint solutions.
In a letter that the Mexican president is preparing to send to Trump, she underscored that threats will not solve shared challenges. “Migration issues and drug consumption in the United States will not be resolved through threats or tariffs. Collaboration and reciprocal economic understanding are required to tackle these major challenges,” Sheinbaum stated.
According to the president, the automotive sector would be among the hardest hit by such policies. Companies like General Motors, Stellantis, and Ford Motor Company, which have been operating in Mexico for more than eight decades, could face significant risks. “Why impose a tariff that endangers these essential companies for both economies?” Sheinbaum asked, warning of the potential impact on jobs and trade.
Economic Risks in Bilateral Trade
It is worth noting that Mexico has strengthened its economic relationship with the United States in recent years, becoming its largest trading partner. Trade between the two countries currently amounts to $800 billion annually, highlighting the importance of maintaining stability in this relationship. However, sectors such as manufacturing and exports, including electronics and plastics, would also face serious challenges if Trump’s threats materialize.
Following the announcement, markets reacted swiftly, with the Mexican peso dropping by more than 2%. However, the currency partially recovered, closing with a 1.4% loss against the dollar. This volatility reflects the uncertainty triggered by tensions between the two nations.
Mexico Seeks Calm and National Unity
In an effort to reassure the markets, Sheinbaum emphasized that her administration has a plan to respond to the threats and will prioritize dialogue. “To those closely following market fluctuations, I say: stay calm. We are working together to ensure stability and long-term solutions,” she said during a press conference.
Sheinbaum also highlighted the importance of national unity in facing these challenges. “The people and the government stand united. There may be differences on other issues, but on this one, we are aligned. Together, we will approach the president-elect and his team for dialogue,” she stated.
Expectations for Cooperation
In her letter, Sheinbaum proposes meetings between both governments to address migration and fentanyl trafficking, issues cited by Trump as justification for his trade policy. The president expressed confidence that a mutual understanding could prevent greater economic and social damage.
“A tariff will not solve the problem. On the contrary, it will exacerbate tensions and jeopardize businesses and consumers in both countries,” Sheinbaum remarked. She also reiterated Mexico’s willingness to work with the incoming U.S. administration to find balanced solutions.
With the transition of power in the United States scheduled for January, discussions between the two governments are expected to begin soon. The Mexican president affirmed that the priority will be to seek constructive dialogue that protects the interests of both nations.