On March 26, 2025, President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing a 25% tariff on the importation of automobiles and auto parts into the United States. The measure is justified under national security considerations and aims to curb a critical threat to the country’s industrial base.

Strategic Context

• It is estimated that only 25% of the content of vehicles purchased in the U.S. during 2024 was made domestically.
• The U.S. automotive sector has lost more than 286,000 jobs since the year 2000, and the country has seen a relative decline in its R&D participation compared to regions like the European Union.

What Does This New Tariff Policy Include?

• Imported automobiles from any origin: sedans, SUVs, crossovers, minivans, cargo vans, and light pickups.
• Key auto parts: engines, transmissions, powertrain components, and electrical systems.
• Tariff application only to non-U.S. content in the case of imports under the USMCA, with a specific certification process pending implementation.
• Potential expansion to other components, as determined by future reviews by U.S. Trade and Customs Authorities.

Considerations Under the USMCA

Vehicles and auto parts that comply with the USMCA’s rules of origin may be partially exempt, paying the tariff only on the value of non-U.S. content, subject to certification. However, the regulatory and operational process is still under development.

For the automotive industry, this underscores the importance of:

• Reviewing regional content.
• Input traceability.
• Robust and updated document management.

At Calderón Marín, we are committed to providing comprehensive and personalized advisory services in foreign trade. If you need support with any of these aspects or wish to obtain more information, do not hesitate to contact us; we will be happy to assist you.