Mexico has announced a comprehensive tariff package targeting imports from countries without trade agreements, including China, India, South Korea, Indonesia, Brazil and Turkey.

The measure introduces duties ranging from 5 to 50% on over 1,400 product categories and will take effect on 1 January.

Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard stated the decision aims to protect 350,000 jobs and stabilise the manufacturing base, which has faced mounting pressure from low-cost Asian goods.

This development comes as Mexico negotiates with the US over import taxes imposed by the United States this year.

The legislation, approved by Congress last week, covers 17 sectors such as textiles, footwear, steel, aluminium, plastics, automobiles, auto parts and household appliances.

According to the South China Morning Post, Mexico currently imports about ten times more from its main Asian partners than it exports, with 2024 figures showing USD 227 billion in imports against USD 22 billion in exports.