How the U.S. Increase in Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Impacts Logistics in Mexico

By María José Gamba Santibáñez

In June 2025, the United States made a decision that is shaking up the commercial and logistics chains of Mexico: it doubled tariffs on imported steel and aluminum, from 25% to 50%. This measure not only makes these materials more expensive, but also generates a domino effect throughout theMexican logistics chain. In a context where efficiency and speed are key, understanding how this change impacts transportation, costs, and distribution is fundamental for any company.

In this article, I explain why this measure has a deeper impact than you imagine, and how key players likeControl Terrestreare prepared to help you face these new challenges in national logistics.

Why did the United States raise tariffs?

President Donald Trump argued that the 50% increase in tariffs on steel and aluminum seeks to protect the "national security" of the U.S., limiting the import of low-cost materials that affect its local industries. Although the measure seeks to defend American producers, it has a direct impact on Mexico, the main trading partner and supplier of these materials for multiple industrial sectors.

This increase directly affects Mexican imports, raising acquisition costs and affecting companies that depend on these inputs to manufacture finished products.

Impact on the Mexican logistics chain

The effect of the tariff increase goes beyond the direct cost of the materials. The increased costs in steel and aluminum impact the entirelogistics chain, because:

• They increase transportation and storage costs:The import of materials with higher tariffs implies an increase in costs that must be absorbed or transferred to other links, affecting the profitability of carriers and logistics operators.
• They generate delays in distribution:Companies seek alternatives or national suppliers, which can cause interruptions and imbalances in the supply chain.
• They affect the competitiveness of Mexican exports:Products manufactured with these expensive materials may lose competitiveness in international markets, impacting export volumes and the demand for logistics services.

For companies operating in land freight transportation, such asControl Terrestre, this means a double challenge: adapting quickly to guarantee efficient deliveries and supporting their clients in optimizing routes, times, and costs.

The challenge for logistics companies

Logistics companies must respond to these changes with strategies that allow them to maintain fluidity in thelogistics chain. Some of the keys to facing this scenario are:

• Optimization of routes and loads:To compensate for the higher costs, more precise and efficient planning is required in the distribution of goods.
• Use of technology for logistics management:Tracking systems, data analysis, and automation help detect bottlenecks and improve decision-making.
• Diversification of suppliers and modes of transport:Seeking new national or international partners and combining different means of transport to minimize impacts.

Control Terrestreis at the forefront in the implementation of these solutions, offering its clients comprehensive advice and technology to face the complexities derived from these tariff measures.

What's next for logistics in Mexico?

The meeting between the Mexican Secretary of Economy, Marcelo Ebrard, and the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, opens the door to negotiations that could alleviate this situation with more stable and permanent agreements. However, while the course is defined, the logistics industry in Mexico must adapt to the volatility and the new costs that are imposed.

It is likely that these measures will lead to greater investment in the improvement of national logistics infrastructure, as well as in innovation to face global challenges. Companies likeControl Terrestreplay a crucial role in connecting producers, carriers, and end customers with solutions that make the logistics chain more agile and profitable.

What to take into account?

The increase in tariffs on steel and aluminum by the United States represents a challenge for the entire logistics chain in Mexico, from the supplier to the final consumer. It is not just an increase in costs, but an urgent call for innovation, efficiency, and cooperation between logistics players.

AtControl Terrestre, we understand the importance of adapting to market changes and providing personalized solutions so that your business continues to move forward without setbacks. We are ready to support you in this new scenario, with strategies that optimize your operations and maintain your competitiveness in the market.