Mexico's foreign secretary on Trump, cartel violence and U.S. trade talks

President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico announced on Friday that her government plans to increase imports from the United States, aiming to lessen the US trade deficit, a matter of particular concern to her predecessor, former President Donald Trump. In 2022, Mexico's exports to the US in dollar terms significantly exceeded its imports from the neighboring country, resulting in a $197 billion surplus in Mexico's favor.

Sheinbaum, a left-wing politician, acknowledged that Mexico already purchases more goods and services from the United States than any other nation but pledged to do more. Her objective is to purchase more from the US and less from other countries, which would contribute to reducing the US trade deficit. This statement comes as her administration seeks to persuade Washington to lower tariffs on various Mexican goods.

The United States and Mexico share a free trade agreement with Canada, which has been under scrutiny since Trump's return to the White House last year. While the US and Canada maintain a more confrontational relationship, Mexico has experienced less tension with the US. However, Trump imposed a 50% tariff on aluminum and steel from Mexico as part of global tariffs and affected the country's vital auto sector.

Last week, Sheinbaum reported that her government was making progress with Washington on reducing tariffs. Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard is scheduled to travel to Washington next week to continue negotiations.