Sourcing IntelligencePolymers, Resins, and Additives

【Mexico】Mexico Congress Approves Tariff Hikes on Imports from China and Other Non-FTA Countries

Dec 11, 2025Local score 8.8

Source image preserved for article context.

Editor's note

This legislative move, driven by U.S. negotiations, signals a major supply-chain risk for chemical and plastics importers. Buyers should reassess sourcing strategies as tariffs up to 50% on non-FTA goods will raise costs and disrupt North American market flows. The regulatory shift underscores the need to monitor compliance and alternative supply routes.

Mexico's Congress has approved tariff increases of up to 50% on over 1,400 products imported from China and other countries without free trade agreements with Mexico, effective January. The move, driven by negotiations with the U.S., will disrupt supply chains for chemicals, plastics, auto parts, and textiles, raising costs for importers and potentially fueling inflation. Overseas chemical buyers should monitor these changes as they may affect sourcing strategies and pricing in the North American market.

Legislative approval and political context

The Mexican Senate passed the measure late Wednesday with 76 votes in favor, five against, and 35 abstentions, following earlier approval by the Chamber of Deputies. The ruling Morena party, led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, controls both chambers. Sheinbaum stated the tariffs are necessary to boost domestic production, but analysts point to ongoing negotiations with Washington as the real driver.

Supply-chain impact

Starting in January, tariff hikes of up to 50% will apply to textiles, footwear, household appliances, automobiles, and auto parts. China will be the most affected, as Mexico imported $130 billion worth of goods from China in 2024, second only to U.S. imports. The Chinese government criticized the proposed increases when announced in September.

Compliance and logistics signals

Óscar Ocampo, director of economic development at the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness, said the true reason relates to the upcoming USMCA review and negotiations to secure reductions and exemptions from U.S. tariffs on Mexican goods, particularly in automotive, steel, and aluminum sectors. He warned that Mexico is shifting its trade policy "in the wrong direction" by yielding to U.S. pressure.

What buyers should watch

Ocampo added that the tariffs will create problems for sectors including auto parts, plastics, chemicals, and textiles, causing supply-chain disruptions and potentially driving inflation amid an economic slowdown. Importers of these materials should assess alternative sourcing options and prepare for higher costs and longer lead times in the Mexican market.

Source: Read the original report | Published: December 11, 2025