Toyota Boosts Tacoma Production 63% in Mexico Despite Tariffs

Toyota continues to rely heavily on its Tacoma pickup production in Mexico to sustain exports amid new US tariffs. From January to May 2025, its Tijuana and Apaseo el Grande plants produced 133,174 Tacomas—a 63.4% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Marisol Blanco, Toyota Mexico Communications Director, noted, “So far, production volumes and exports have not been affected,” though she highlighted challenges in tracking component origins under the updated tariff regulations.

Since 2017, Toyota has centralized all Tacoma manufacturing in Mexico, including the hybrid model, shifting production from its San Antonio facility. This strategy has allowed Toyota to meet USMCA regional content rules, exempting it from the initial tariff. However, tariffs on non-US content and foreign steel and aluminum remain in effect. Blanco explained, “We are working closely with authorities and industry groups to improve traceability systems that could reduce the tariff burden.”

Guillermo Díaz, President, Toyota Motor Sales Mexico, said that while tariffs will increase costs in the United States—likely impacting consumer prices—the company’s operations in Mexico remain stable thanks to a steady exchange rate and absence of retaliatory tariffs. “Our Mexican operations are solid. The situation in the United States is more complex and is being handled accordingly,” Díaz said.

Toyota plans to keep production steady at 2024 levels despite strong demand for the Tacoma. Blanco remarked, “We intend to maintain current production volumes,” reflecting caution amid market uncertainties. In contrast, other manufacturers like General Motors have shifted some production back to the United Sates to avoid tariffs—a strategy Toyota has so far avoided.