Relations between Mexico City and Beijing seemed to be headed for stormy times following the announcement by Claudia Sheinbaum's administration of its intention to impose a 50% tariff on vehicles imported from several countries, notably China. On Wednesday, September 10, the Mexican government stated its intention to increase entry taxes on more than 1,400 types of products, ranging from metallurgy and textiles to toys and automobiles, imported from countries with which it does not have trade agreements – such as China, South Korea, and India.

Mexico's Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard said in an interview with the local media outlet Radio Formula that the country was prepared to impose some tariffs at the maximum rate allowed by the World Trade Organization. He specifically cited "cars from Asia, particularly from China, as their average price indicates a market-share strategy that disadvantages the Mexican industry." Beijing saw this as an attempt by Mexico to curry favor with US President Donald Trump ahead of the scheduled review of the United States – Mexico – Canada Agreement (USMCA). Talks are set to open in October and conclude by July 1, 2026. Normally, this would be a procedural meeting between Washington, Ottawa and Mexico City, but Trump's unpredictability on trade issues has caused worry.

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