With the introduction of customs tariffs, the United States “will shoot itself in the foot”

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Wednesday she had an “excellent discussion” with Donald Trump. During this exchange, the two leaders discussed sensitive subjects such as immigration and security, in a context marked by the president-elect's threats to impose high customs tariffs on products imported from Mexico, Canada and the China.

Claudia Sheinbaum indicated on X that she presented Mexico's strategy regarding the management of migratory flows. According to her, migrant caravans no longer reach the northern border thanks to reception and support systems set up in Mexico. The two leaders also addressed the issue of security, particularly in relation to the prevention campaign led by Mexico against the consumption of fentanyl.

A response from Mexico

In reaction to the Mexican president's comments, Donald Trump spoke on his Truth Social platform. “She agreed to end immigration through Mexico and into the United States, thereby closing our southern border,” he wrote, recalling “a wonderful conversation with the new president of Mexico” .

“Mexico will prevent people from traveling to our southern border, starting immediately,” he continued in another message, assuring that this measure would “greatly contribute to stopping the illegal invasion of the States -United”. Donald Trump reaffirmed Monday his intention to impose customs duties of 25% on all products imported from Mexico, conditioning the lifting of this tax on a reduction in fentanyl trafficking and a stop to illegal immigration.

Faced with these threats, Claudia Sheinbaum firmly responded in a letter addressed to Donald Trump, declaring that “it is not through threats or customs tariffs that you are going to stop the phenomenon of immigration nor drug consumption in the States. -United”. The Mexican president also warned that Mexico could retaliate by increasing its own tariffs on American products, which could jeopardize the economic competitiveness of the United States and worsen inflation and unemployment.

Good hope of finding a compromise

During a press conference, Claudia Sheinbaum expressed optimism that a deal could be reached with Donald Trump, but concerns remain. Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard warned that the introduction of these tariffs would have serious consequences. According to him, such a measure could lead to the elimination of 400,000 American jobs and cause heavy losses to businesses in both countries, pointing out that 83% of Mexican exports are destined for the United States.

Despite the tensions, Claudia Sheinbaum is confident in the possibility of finding a compromise. She said the United States would risk “shooting itself in the foot” by penalizing its own businesses with high tariffs. The Mexican president, while denouncing Trump's threats, continues to advocate dialogue to strengthen bilateral collaboration between the two countries.