Mexico prioritizes aluminum tariff cuts as US trade talks shift to October

Mexico-US trade talks, including discussions on aluminum tariffs, have been delayed, with the fourth round of negotiations now expected to take place in October. The delay comes as both countries manage busy diplomatic schedules.

Luis Rosendo Gutierrez, Mexico’s deputy economy minister for foreign trade, said the delay stemmed from scheduling conflicts, including Chinese President Xi Jinping’s planned visit to the United States and the upcoming G20 summit.

Although the formal talks have been postponed, technical discussions between Mexico and the US Trade Representative’s Office (USTR) are continuing on a “daily” basis, Gutierrez said.

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Aluminum tariffs remain a priority

Mexico is seeking changes to US tariffs on several key products. Gutierrez said the country’s priority is to reduce Section 232 tariffs on aluminum, steel, and automobiles.

The negotiations are aimed at reaching an interim bilateral agreement that could provide Mexico with relief from some US tariffs, while addressing US demands on areas including automotive content and Chinese investment.

The discussions have also expanded, with the negotiation agenda growing from 54 issues to nearly 90. Gutierrez described the increase as part of the process of addressing more complex areas, including regulation of digital platforms.

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Previous US-Mexico aluminum tariff measures

US tariffs on Mexican aluminum have changed several times ahead of the latest trade talks. In March 2025, the US brought back a 25% Section 232 tariff on aluminum imports from Mexico, ending the earlier preferential treatment. Mexico opposed the decision and considered retaliatory measures but continued talks with Washington. In June 2025, the US doubled the aluminium tariff to 50%, putting further pressure on Mexican exporters and North American supply chains. Mexico has continued to seek tariff relief as part of its broader trade talks with the US.

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Rules of origin are still a key issue in the Mexico-US talks, especially for products that use parts from outside North America. The US wants more parts to come from the region, while Mexico wants to keep access to the US market and avoid disruptions to its supply chains. Steel, aluminum, and automobiles were among the issues discussed in July, with the wider agenda covering areas such as economic security, labor, and agriculture. Separately, Mexico has imposed a five-year anti-dumping duty of $1,580 per metric ton on certain aluminum bars, rods, and profiles from China. The fourth round of talks is expected in October, while technical discussions continue.