Borderlands Mexico: Exports of Mexican-made heavy-duty trucks to US roar back

Heavy-duty truck exports from Mexico to the United States have surged back to life, with production and shipments more than doubling compared to the previous year. Mexico's heavy-duty vehicle industry saw a remarkable 100.2% increase in production, from 8,187 units in August 2025 to 16,389 units in August 2026. Exports followed suit, jumping 116.7% year over year to 14,310 units.

The August gains signify a significant turnaround after earlier weakness, though year-to-date growth remains modest. Freightliner led production with a staggering 10,240 units, a 133.1% increase from the previous year. International followed closely with 4,525 units, up 100.8%. Kenworth saw an 8.5% increase, producing 1,087 units.

The U.S. remains the primary export market, with 79,261 units shipped through August, accounting for 92.5% of all exports. Canada and Colombia rounded out the top three export destinations. ANPACT, a trade association, called for expanded financing, tax incentives, and scrappage programs to address concerns over used heavy-duty vehicle imports from the U.S. The industry also faces potential tariff impacts from the USMCA review.

Nexio Power recently secured a 77-acre industrial campus in Anderson, Texas, to produce commercial trucks, finish, test, and warehouse vehicles. The facility, equipped for heavy-duty vehicle manufacturing, will support production, comply with regional-content requirements, and offer alternative-fuel vehicle capabilities.