“On March 4, the US-Mexico border faced a standstill as Thor Salayandia’s trucks destined for the United States remained parked in a lot, surrounded by an atmosphere of confusion. Salayandia runs a factory in Juarez, Mexico that produces auto parts and ships metal tubes to Texas for assembly. The recent tariff threats and counterthreats between the US and Mexico have impacted his business, leading to reduced traffic and uncertainty among officials.
President Trump’s tariff policies have caused major industries in Mexico and the US to struggle to adapt to changing rules, with Salayandia considering downsizing his workforce and potentially relocating his factory to Texas for cost-saving measures.
Despite the temporary exemption of goods under the USMCA from tariffs until April 2, Mexican business leaders remain uncertain and are rushing to comply with the trade agreement, fearing future policies. Mexican politicians emphasize the stability of the peso and aim to protect jobs and economic activity in the country.
The automotive industry, a significant sector affected by the tariffs, faces challenges in complying with T-MEC guidelines and may need to make tough decisions to address the impact of the tariffs. Mexican officials are working to negotiate preferential treatment for Mexico to safeguard economic activity.
Amidst the turmoil, business leaders are exploring alternative markets and reconsidering long-term plans. The uncertainty extends beyond the automotive industry to other products like avocados, which face potential price increases due to compliance issues with T-MEC regulations.
Looking ahead, Mexican officials are focused on reforming the T-MEC deal for long-term stability, while businesses strategize on how to navigate the changing trade landscape and potential tariffs.” Kita gak bisa konsentrasi lagi hanya di satu pasar.”
Kedua Oceguera dan Bustamante bilang biaya sebenarnya bakal jatuh ke konsumen Amerika, karena ribuan produk bakal jadi lebih mahal, dengan harga mobil naik beberapa ribu dolar per kendaraan.”
Atmosfer ketidakpastian udah menyebar bahkan ke industri yang sepenuhnya masuk dalam pedoman T-MEC, karena Trump sedang pertimbangkan untuk menerapkan tarif secara luas. Skenario seperti itu bakal dorong ekonomi Meksiko ke dalam resesi, sementara ekonomi AS bakal menghadapi kenaikan harga.”
“Kita selalu akan membela perusahaan-perusahaan Meksiko, itu bagian dari pekerjaan mendasar kita,” kata Sheinbaum pada 27 Maret. “Inti dari perjanjian perdagangan T-MEC adalah tidak boleh ada tarif. Itu intinya.”