Mexico’s Senate has approved significant tariff increases on imports from China and several other Asian countries; a move aimed at strengthening domestic industry amid growing trade pressures. The decision, passed on Dec. 10 following earlier approval in the lower house, introduces new duties of up to 50% starting in 2026.
The tariff hikes will apply to a wide range of products—including automobiles, auto parts, textiles, clothing, plastics, and steel—imported from nations without trade agreements with Mexico. These include China, India, South Korea, Thailand, and Indonesia. Most targeted goods will face tariffs of up to 35%, while some categories will reach the full 50% rate.
The move has drawn criticism from China and several Mexican business groups, who argue that higher import duties could raise costs and disrupt supply chains. Analysts note that the decision is also seen as an effort to align more closely with U.S. interests ahead of the upcoming review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Despite the opposition, lawmakers backing the measure said the increase is necessary to protect local industries and maintain competitiveness as global trade tensions rise.
