Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the Trump administration’s new tariffs. She called the 25% tax on Mexican goods unfair and promised retaliation.
"There is no reason, rationale or justification," Sheinbaum said Tuesday. "Nobody wins with this decision."
The U.S. started imposing the tariffs Tuesday, adding a 10% levy on Chinese imports. Trump says the move is meant to fight drug trafficking and illegal immigration.
"In these 30 days, decisive actions were taken against organized crime and fentanyl trafficking," Sheinbaum said. She pointed to recent bilateral meetings on security and trade.
She stressed that Mexico is doing its part. "We collaborate to avoid illegal drug trafficking," she said. "But as we have said on multiple occasions, that country’s government must take responsibility too."
She warned of economic consequences. "It’s inconceivable that they don’t think about the damage this is going to cause," she said. Prices will rise. Jobs will suffer.
The U.S. delayed the tariffs earlier this year. Officials hoped for trade deals with Mexico and Canada to improve border security and stop fentanyl smuggling.
Last week, Trump doubled down. "Drugs are still pouring into our Country from Mexico and Canada at very high and unacceptable levels," he posted on Truth Social.
Sheinbaum isn’t backing down. She plans to announce Mexico’s response, including retaliatory tariffs, on Sunday in Mexico City.