Mexico and Canada have largely been shielded from the barrage of import duties announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday, part of his economic plan aimed at revitalizing manufacturing in the United States.
The White House released a table detailing tariffs for 184 countries and the European Union (EU), but to the surprise of many, neither Mexico nor Canada appeared on the list.
According to a statement from the White House, goods from Mexico and Canada that comply with the USMCA trade agreement will remain exempt from tariffs, except for auto exports, steel, and aluminum, which are subject to separate tariff policies.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum welcomed the exemption, attributing it to “the strong relationship we have cultivated with the United States, based on respect, collaboration, and coordination, while upholding Mexican sovereignty.” Earlier this year, Trump had imposed 25 percent tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada due to concerns over illegal migration and fentanyl shipments. These duties, previously delayed in February and March, will now apply to non-USMCA merchandise.
Both Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed optimism that the exemption under the USMCA would now lead to constructive negotiations on trade issues with the United States.
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