Q: According to reports, Mexico plans to increase import tariffs on approximately 1,400 tariff lines—including automobiles, toys, steel, textiles, and plastic products—originating from countries that have not signed free trade agreements with Mexico, including China. The new rates would range from 10% to 50%. Some analysts believe that Mexico’s proposed tariff hike aligns with the United States’ long-standing strategy to contain China, could be used in future trade negotiations with its North American partners, and supports the objectives of the “Mexico Plan” to boost domestic production and consumption. What is MOFCOM’s comment on this?

A: We have taken note of the relevant reports. We will closely monitor Mexico’s moves regarding the proposed tariff increases, and conduct a careful assessment of any final measures. In light of the global opposition to the U.S.’s widespread use of tariffs, countries should enhance communication and coordination to jointly safeguard free trade and multilateralism, and must not sacrifice the interests of third parties under external pressure. In this context, any unilateral tariff increases by Mexico, even within the framework of WTO rules, would be seen as appeasement and a concession to unilateral bullying. If implemented, such measures will not only harm the interests of related trade partners, including China, but also severely undermine the certainty of Mexico’s business environment, diminishing investor confidence. China and Mexico are important economic and trade partners, and we do not wish to see bilateral cooperation adversely affected. We call on Mexico to exercise the utmost caution and carefully weigh the potential consequences before taking any action.

China has consistently advocated resolving economic and trade differences through equal-footed dialogue and consultation. We oppose any form of unilateralism, protectionism, and discriminatory or exclusionary measures, and firmly oppose any actions that harm China’s interests. China will take necessary measures based on actual developments to resolutely safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.