Tariff Package / Relation With Asia

2026 Tariff Package. Minister of Economy Marcelo Ebrard detailed that the 2026 fiscal tariff package seeks to protect employment in the textile, footwear, steel, and automotive industries. He explained that the tariff strategy is part of Plan México, noting that in several key industries nine out of 10 products are imported, a trend he described as unsustainable. The plan aims to increase national content in supply chains, replace imported inputs, strengthen the Made in Mexico brand, raise investment and generate 1.5 million jobs.

Ebrard also stressed that the application of tariffs is expected to increase prices of affected imported products by approximately 0.2%. He acknowledged that the automotive sector will face less favorable competitive conditions but said companies have sufficient margins to absorb the impact.

Ebrard stated that the projected cost increase is a tradeoff to protect 350,000 jobs and prevent unfair pricing practices that undermine domestic industries.

Relation With Asia. Sheinbaum said measures are intended to protect the domestic industry rather than provoke diplomatic tensions. She confirmed that Mexico remains in dialogue with countries including China, South Korea, and Vietnam.

She stressed that the decisions were made in coordination with business and industrial sectors of all sizes to strengthen employment and national development.

Sessions in High-Crime States. President Sheinbaum announced that in 2026, the Security Cabinet will begin holding coordination sessions in states with the highest crime rates. To facilitate these visits, this week some morning press conferences will be broadcast from different regions of the country rather than from Mexico City.

Sheinbaum explained that the initiative will begin with the states facing the most serious public security challenges, as part of a strategy to strengthen coordination with local authorities.

Chilean Election. Sheinbaum said that the electoral victory of conservative candidate José Antonio Kast in Chile represents an opportunity for reflection among progressive movements in Latin America. She noted that a lack of unity often leads to declining public support, although she dismissed the possibility of a similar outcome in Mexico.

She emphasized that each country must be analyzed independently and reaffirmed her respect for democratic outcomes, stating that Chile’s election reflected the will of its people.