On May 31, 2018, the Government of Mexico posted its reaction to the imposition by the US of 25% tariffs on steel and 10% tariffs on aluminum from Mexico. A translation of the Mexican posting follows:
Mexico deeply regrets and rejects the decision of the United States to impose these tariffs on imports of steel and aluminum from Mexico as of June 1, under the criterion of national security.
Mexico has repeatedly indicated that this type of measures under the criterion of national security are not adequate or justified.
Steel and aluminum are inputs that contribute to the competitiveness of several strategic and highly integrated sectors in North America, such as automotive, aerospace, electrical and electronic, among others. Mexico is the main buyer of aluminum and the second of steel from the United States.
Mexico reiterates its position against protectionist measures that affect and distort international merchandise trade.
Faced with tariffs imposed by the US, Mexico will impose equivalent measures to various products such as flat steel (hot and cold foil, including coated and various tubes), lamps, pork legs and shoulders, sausages and food preparations, apples, grapes, blueberries, various cheeses, among others, up to an amount comparable to the level of affectation.
This measure will be in force until the US government eliminates the imposed taxes.
Mexico reiterates its openness to constructive dialogue with the US, its support for the international trading system and its rejection of unilateral protectionist measures.
