Tariffs on steel and aluminum won't be paused for Mexico: Lutnick

The United States Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, announced that the 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum from Mexico and Canada will take effect on Wednesday, March 12, with no possibility of suspension.

These measures, ordered by President Donald Trump, aim to curb the entry of metals from countries like China and Russia that, through Mexico, reach the U.S. market.

Confusion in the markets 

This tariff policy has caused confusion and volatility in the financial markets due to its abrupt implementation and constant changes.

Although Trump recently postponed tariffs on other Mexican and Canadian products until April 2, the specific tariffs on steel and aluminum remain firm.

The United States pressures Mexico

Lutnick indicated that the imposition of these tariffs also seeks to pressure Mexico and Canada to intensify their efforts in stopping the flow of undocumented immigrants and illegal drugs into the United States.

He indicated that if the trafficking of fentanyl is curbed, the tariffs could be removed; otherwise, they will remain in effect until the president considers that sufficient progress has been made on these issues.

The response of Mexican society

The National Chamber of the Iron and Steel Industry (Canacero) has urged the Mexican government to respond with retaliatory measures if the United States implements these tariffs on steel and aluminum.

The President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, emphasized in a recent speech the importance of dialogue and respect in negotiations with the United States, highlighting that both nations are equal and must work together to address shared problems, such as arms and drug trafficking.

The key date will be April 2, when it will be decided whether additional tariffs on other Mexican products will be implemented. Meanwhile, the sectors affected by the steel and aluminum tariffs must prepare to face the economic consequences of this.