Mexico is reportedly planning to raise import tariffs on goods from countries without free trade agreements, including China. The proposed measures would affect around 1,400 product categories—such as automobiles, toys, steel, textiles, and plastics—with tariff rates ranging from 10% to 50%. Analysts suggest the move aligns with Washington’s long-standing strategy to pressure China, while also serving Mexico’s domestic industrial policy and future trade negotiations.
Ministry of Commerce Responds
China’s Ministry of Commerce issued a late-night statement on September 11, noting it is closely monitoring Mexico’s tariff plan and will carefully assess any final measures. The spokesperson stressed:
At a time when U.S. tariff abuse has drawn widespread global opposition, countries should strengthen coordination and uphold free trade and multilateralism, rather than sacrificing third-party interests under external pressure.
Any unilateral tariff action by Mexico, even within WTO rules, would be seen as a concession to unilateral bullying.
If implemented, the measures would harm the interests of China and other trading partners, undermine Mexico’s business environment, and weaken investor confidence.
The ministry reiterated that China supports resolving trade frictions through equal dialogue, opposes unilateralism, protectionism, and discriminatory practices, and will take necessary measures to firmly defend its legitimate rights and interests.
Foreign Ministry’s Position
At the September 11 press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian echoed these concerns:
China advocates inclusive economic globalization and firmly opposes restrictions imposed under external coercion.
As key members of the Global South, China and Mexico enjoy mutually beneficial trade cooperation. China values its relationship with Mexico and hopes both sides will work together to promote global economic recovery and trade development.
Chinese Trade Remains Resilient
Addressing questions about slower export growth in August, Lin highlighted China’s diversified trade network as a stabilizing factor.
In the first eight months of 2025, China’s total goods trade reached RMB 29.57 trillion (≈ USD 4.1 trillion), up 3.5% year-on-year.
Exports totaled RMB 17.61 trillion, up 6.9%, while imports reached RMB 11.96 trillion, down 1.2%, with the decline narrowing.
In August alone, trade was valued at RMB 3.87 trillion, up 3.5%, marking the third consecutive month of growth in both exports and imports.
Lin emphasized that China’s foreign trade remains a key driver of global commerce, and its economy continues to be a major source of global growth. With policy measures taking effect, China’s economic vitality and potential will be further released, injecting certainty into the global economy.
