Mexico Negotiates on Trump Auto Tariffs, Canada Retaliates

Mexico: "We Are the Only Country Communicating This Closely With the U.S."
Canada: "We Will Take Retaliatory Measures That Cause Maximum Damage to the U.S. and Minimum to Canada"

In response to U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of tariffs on foreign-made automobiles, the two neighboring countries of the United States presented contrasting solutions. Mexico proposed a negotiation strategy, while Canada decided to respond with strong retaliatory measures.

Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico. Photo by Reuters Yonhap News

Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico, stated at a regular press conference on the 27th (local time), "In the case of the automobile sector, as announced by the U.S. government, parts covered under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will remain tariff-free for the time being," adding, "We will be able to inform you how we can utilize new conditions through negotiations."

She continued, "Around April 2nd, not only the U.S. but Mexico will also be able to announce a strategy to the world," and said, "Mexico is actively consulting with the U.S. I believe we are the only country communicating at this level with the U.S."

Marcelo Ebrard, Mexico's Secretary of Economy, also revealed that he has met at least six times with U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick so far. He said, "The U.S. authorities recognize that the proportion of U.S.-made parts used in vehicles produced in Mexico is increasing. The tariff rates will vary significantly depending on the extent of usage," adding, "Ultimately, we are negotiating so that automobile parts produced in Mexico can be exempt from tariffs." He further noted, "We expect that manufacturers operating in Mexico will not be subject to double tariffs when crossing the border."

Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada. Photo by EPA Yonhap News

Unlike Mexico, which expressed willingness to continue flexible dialogue with the U.S., Canada took a tougher stance. After concluding a cabinet special committee meeting to respond to the Trump administration's tariffs, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said, "The long-standing relationship with the U.S., based on deep economic integration and close security and military cooperation, is now over," adding, "We will not rule out any options to protect our workers and our country."

He continued, "We will fight against the U.S. tariffs with retaliatory measures that inflict maximum damage on the U.S. while minimizing harm to Canada," and stated, "It is clear that the U.S. is no longer a reliable partner. While comprehensive negotiations might restore some trust, we cannot return to the past."

Prime Minister Carney said that for relations with the U.S. to improve, the U.S. must respect Canada's sovereignty. He emphasized, "Asking for respect for our sovereignty is not a big demand from our perspective, but it seems to be a major issue for President Trump," and stressed, "Canada is a sovereign nation, and decisions are made by us."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.