Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard stated on Tuesday that the U.S. decision to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Mexico, ordered by President Donald Trump, "is not justified" due to the existing steel and aluminum trade surplus the U.S. holds with Mexico. Ebrard emphasized during a press conference with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum that Mexico imports more steel from the U.S. than it exports.
President Trump recently announced a 25% increase on steel and aluminum imports without exceptions, aiming to support struggling U.S. industries but risking a trade conflict with Mexico as its principal trade partner. Ebrard referenced U.S. Census Bureau data, revealing a decrease in Mexican steel exports to the U.S. since 2022, while imports of U.S. steel by Mexico have risen during the same period.
The imposition of steel and aluminum tariffs is set for March 12. Mexico, Canada, and Brazil are major suppliers of steel to the U.S., with Mexico being a primary destination for U.S. steel product exports.
Following Trump's threat of tariffs on Mexican imports, Ebrard expressed plans to engage with the U.S. Commerce Secretary and Trade Representative to present Mexico's perspective. Despite previous exemptions, Mexico could potentially face new tariffs if certain demands regarding border security are not met by March 1.