Sheinbaum Defends Mexico Against U.S. Tariffs, Calls for Bilateral Respect
On March 4, 2025, President Claudia Sheinbaum held her morning press conference at Palacio Nacional, addressing the recent imposition of 25% tariffs on Mexican exports by the United States. This announcement by President Donald Trump has raised concerns about upcoming economic repercussions and the future of the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
Sheinbaum began her "Mañanera del Pueblo" stating outright, "There is no reason or justification for the United States to impose tariffs on all exports from Mexico," highlighting her administration's compliance with efforts against organized crime and fentanyl trafficking. She insisted this unilateral measure from the U.S. contradicts the cooperative spirit expected between the two nations.
During the conference, Sheinbaum shared details about her scheduled phone conversation with President Trump, set to take place on Thursday, March 6. She mentioned, "This week we have planned a call with President Trump, and we must be ready to address these tariffs. Should they remain, we have our response prepared for announcement on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 12:00 hours at the Zócalo of Mexico City." The planned announcement aims to outline Mexico's countermeasures against the tariffs, which could include both tariff and non-tariff actions.
Addressing concerns raised by reporter Aaron Aragón about information blackouts affecting Chihuahua, Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of independent media, urging the public to remain informed. "We need balanced information, and media independence is celebrated," she stated.
On the social front, Eduardo Clark announced the establishment of a new economic support program for families of children with cancer, who are without social security. This program offers bimonthly financial assistance of 6,400 pesos, to be funded equally by the Bienestar program and private donations.
Zoé Robledo, head of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), highlighted significant progress, noting they have hired 3,244 specialists, accounting for nearly 99% of those attending recruitment events, with new hires beginning work on March 16.
Sheinbaum also discussed the alarming statistics concerning opioid trafficking, citing data from Customs and Border Protection (CBP) indicating 80% of those detained for fentanyl trafficking from 2019 to 2024 at border ports were U.S. citizens. "We have been making significant strides against organized crime and fentanyl trafficking recently," she said, citing the 50% decrease of fentanyl seizures from Mexico found within U.S. borders. This data was shared to highlight the shared responsibility between nations concerning the opioid crisis.
While responding to questions about arms traffic, Sheinbaum stated, "The U.S. has the most conclusive proof of the arms trafficking responsibility. Documents show 74% of seized weapons in Mexico originated from the United States," asserting the need for the U.S. to handle domestic issues, including the crisis stemming from opioid consumption.
Reflecting on the economic ties and integration between the U.S. and Mexico, Sheinbaum urged Mexican nationals living abroad to send letters to U.S. Congress members explaining how the tariffs would negatively impact both nations. She emphasized, "Mexico is the leading trade partner of the United States; we produce significant amounts of what Americans consume. This relationship should not be jeopardized due to misguided tariffs."
She closed her address by reiteruring her administration's commitment to respond to the U.S. tariffs diplomatically and firmly. "Cooperation must be based on mutual respect; we will not compromise our sovereignty," she stated passionately. Sheinbaum articulated her vision for open dialogue as fundamental, emphasizing, "We must engage without subordination, insisting on the mutual respect our nations deserve."
Overall, Sheinbaum's firm stance on the tariffs is indicative of the heated debate surrounding U.S.-Mexico relations, and with the forthcoming public assembly planned for Sunday, the stakes are high as both nations approach this contentious issue. This response from the Mexican government signifies not merely economic opposition but an assertion of national sovereignty and dignity on the international stage.