90-Day Tariff Pause Between Mexico and USA

The recent confirmation of a 90-day extension in the application of 30% tariffs on Mexican products by the United States, announced by President Claudia Sheinbaum after a conversation with Donald Trump, represents significant relief and a strategic moment for the logistics and transportation sector in Mexico. This measure, which avoids the implementation of levies that would have negatively impacted the commercial dynamics between both nations, offers a window of opportunity to consolidate long-term agreements and strengthen Mexico's position in international trade. President Sheinbaum has emphasized that these 90 days will be crucial for negotiating a more favorable agreement, safeguarding the integrity of the Treaty between Mexico, the United States, and Canada (T-MEC). It's essential to remember that most Mexican exports to the United States already operate under zero tariffs thanks to this treaty, which underscores the importance of maintaining and reinforcing this commercial framework. The impact of the possible imposition of 30% tariffs would have been considerable, especially for supply chains and cross-border land transport. Carlos Martner, coordinator of Integrated Transport and Logistics at the Mexican Transport Institute (IMT), has pointed out that, although only a percentage of exports outside T-MEC would be affected, the increase in costs would have caused a rearrangement in supply chains and a decrease in exports. Road transport, in particular, would have felt a reduction in export movements, directly affecting a vital sector for the economy of both countries. However, the current extension allows commercial flow to continue without abrupt interruptions. March 2025 data, showing a total cross-border cargo value of $144.8 billion between the United States and its North American partners, with $55.6 billion corresponding to trade between Mexico and the United States, evidences the magnitude of what was at stake. This pause not only benefits Mexican exporters but also ensures stability for U.S. consumers, avoiding an increase in prices of essential products. We remain attentive to negotiations and trust that this pause will translate into a lasting agreement that benefits the entire supply chain, from producer to final consumer. The adaptation capacity and resilience of the Mexican logistics sector will be key during this period, and we must be prepared to face challenges and take advantage of opportunities that arise.