Mexico Raises Textile Import Tariffs To 35% To Support Domestic Industry
Mexico has raised import tariffs on textile products to as much as 35%, according to Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard, in a move to support its domestic textile industry. The new tariffs, announced on December 19 alongside President Claudia Sheinbaum, will apply until April 22, 2026. Finished textile products will face a 35% tariff, while textile merchandise imports will be taxed at 15%.
Countries with which Mexico has a free trade agreement, such as the United States and Canada under the USMCA, are exempt from these increased tariffs. While some speculated that the tariffs were targeted at cheap Chinese imports, Ebrard emphasized that the policy was not aimed at any specific country.
“This policy will help foster the development of our national industry, aligning with our goal of shared prosperity and increasing the national content of everything we consume,” Ebrard explained.
The move could also be seen as a gesture of assurance to regional partners, particularly with the upcoming inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. Both Trump and Canadian officials have voiced concerns about the influx of low-cost Chinese goods entering North America through Mexico.
In a related development, Ebrard had previously announced a crackdown on illegal goods entering the country, which included a raid on a Mexico City shopping centre known for selling inexpensive Chinese imports. The tariff increase is also part of Mexico’s broader effort to combat patent piracy and illegal trade practices.
The new policy aims to protect the Mexican textile industry while addressing broader trade and regulatory concerns.
