Tariffs on Semi-Trucks Exported to the United States: How Does This Impact Mexico and the Logistics Chain?

Mexico has established itself as thelargest exporter of tractor-trailers in the world, with the United States as its main destination. According to data from the National Association of Bus, Truck and Tractor-Trailer Producers (ANPACT), our country ranks fourth in the export of cargo and passenger vehicles, which makes it a strategic player within the global industry.

In 2024, Mexico reached the production of213,241 heavy vehicles, the second-best record after 2019. Of these units,159,466 were exported, and95.5% were destined for the U.S. market. This means that practically the entire production and logistics chain of the sector is strongly linked to the bilateral relationship with the U.S.

The announcement of new tariffs

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that as ofOctober 1, 2025, he will impose a25% tariff on heavy trucks manufactured outside U.S. territory. According to the president, the measure seeks to protect local manufacturers such as Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner and Mack Trucks, under the argument of national security.

This announcement stems from the investigation that began inthe U.S. Department of Commercelast April, underSection 232, a mechanism that allows the imposition of trade measures when certain imports are considered to threaten national security.

In the case of Mexico, this new scenario will directly impact the brands with the largest share in exports to the United States:

• Freightliner, with 65% of the exported volume.
• International, with 31%.
• Kenworth, with 4%.

Consequences for the industry and logistics

The imposition of tariffs represents ahard blow to the competitiveness of the Mexican industry, as trucks and tractor-trailers produced in Mexico will become more expensive in the U.S. market. This could generate:

• Reduction in demandfrom North American customers, due to the higher cost of the units.
• Production adjustmentswithin Mexico, with a possible impact on jobs and supply chains.
• Tension in the logistics chainacross the border, as export flows could slow down while solutions or exceptions to tariffs are sought.
• Need for diversification: opening new markets beyond the United States could become a strategic priority.

The role of Control Terrestre in this context

In the midst of this situation, logistics companies play a key role in mitigating the impact of the new measures. AtControl Terrestre (CT), we understand that competitiveness depends not only on trade agreements, but also on the ability of organizations toadapt and maintain secure, reliable and flexible supply chains.

Some actions that become relevant in this scenario are:

• Optimization of routes and logistics costs, to offset the effect of tariffs on final prices.
• Risk managementwithin the logistics chain to ensure continuity in the operation.
• Strategic support to exportersthrough solutions that ensure regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

Looking ahead

The announcement of tariffs not only affects manufacturers based in Mexico, but also the entire ecosystem of suppliers, carriers and logistics operators that are part of thisinterdependent chain between Mexico and the United States.

At Control Terrestre, we are convinced thatinvesting in innovation, security and human valuewill be essential to face these types of global challenges. Our mission is to accompany clients in the construction of aresilient logistics chain, which guarantees reliability even in contexts of commercial uncertainty.

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