On April 2, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the implementation of a series of new tariffs, referred to as Liberation Day. These measures aim to reduce the trade deficit and promote domestic production but have generated uncertainty in international trade due to their impact on various industries and countries.
WHAT MEASURES WERE IMPLEMENTED?
The new tariff package includes the following provisions:
• A general 10% tariff on all imports to the United States, affecting a wide range of products from different regions.
• Reciprocal tariffs applied to approximately 60 countries, including the European Union, China, and Japan, based on the duties these countries impose on U.S. products.
• Exemptions for Mexico and Canada, provided their products comply with the rules of origin established in the USMCA, allowing them to avoid these new tariffs. This highlights the treaty’s significance in preserving barrier-free trade in North America.
• Impact on the automotive sector, as a 25% tariff is imposed on imported vehicles that do not contain sufficient U.S. content. This could reshape industry trade dynamics and affect foreign manufacturers.
• A new 25% tariff on beer and aluminum can imports, impacting countries with strong exports of these products, such as Mexico.
IMPACT ON MEXICO
• While Mexico remains exempt from the general 10% tariff thanks to the USMCA, products that do not meet its rules of origin will face tariffs of up to 25%, underscoring the importance of ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Exporting companies must carefully review their production processes and documentation to ensure compliance with regulations and avoid additional costs.
• The automotive sector, a key pillar of Mexico’s economy, could be affected if the new rules alter the competitiveness of domestic manufacturers. Origin certification and supply chain optimization will be crucial to mitigating risks.
• The brewing industry, one of Mexico’s leading export sectors, could face higher costs when accessing the U.S. market due to the new 25% tariff, affecting both major producers and small craft breweries.
GLOBAL IMPACT
• The European Union, China, and Japan have announced retaliatory tariff measures against U.S. products in response to these provisions, potentially escalating trade tensions.
• Emerging markets with high export levels to the United States are evaluating strategies to minimize the impact and explore alternative trade agreements.

At Calderón Marín, we have a team of experts in tax, foreign trade, and international commerce ready to assist you in understanding these new provisions and their impact on your business. Feel free to contact us for a personalized consultation.