In a strong public rebuke, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum warned President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday that his proposed import tariffs could lead to economic ruin for both countries. Speaking at a press conference, Sheinbaum read a letter she intended to send to Trump, urging him to reconsider his tariff plan. According to The Washington Post, the U.S. is Mexico’s largest trading partner, importing $475 billion in goods from Mexico in 2023 and exporting nearly $323 billion. Sheinbaum’s message was clear: tariffs could spiral into a trade war, with consequences detrimental to both economies.
Claudia Sheinbaum cautions that U.S. tariffs would spark an economic war
Sheinbaum emphasized that such a trade war would risk the stability of “common businesses” shared between the two nations. Her warning comes at a time when Mexico has become a central player in U.S. trade, making the proposal to increase tariffs not only reckless but potentially catastrophic. With such deep trade ties, Sheinbaum’s response underscores the serious repercussions that could unfold if tensions escalate.
In addition to addressing the economic implications, Claudia Sheinbaum also tackled Trump’s long-standing criticism of Mexico, particularly his claims that the country is responsible for exporting crime and drugs to the U.S. While the U.S. opioid crisis has been devastating, Mexico has largely avoided an epidemic of that scale, despite its proximity to the global drug trade. Sheinbaum also pointed out that Mexico has sought accountability from U.S. gun manufacturers for the flow of weapons fueling violence in her country.
Despite her firm stance, it’s unclear if Trump will heed Claudia Sheinbaum’s warnings. Given his history of clashes with Mexico and powerful women, it’s unlikely he will shift his position. Still, Sheinbaum made it clear that Mexico is prepared to defend its interests, even if it means risking a trade war with its northern neighbor.
