Mexico pushes for lower US aluminum tariffs as trade talks advance

Mexico and the United States are making progress toward a potential trade agreement, with tariffs on aluminum, steel, and automobiles among the key issues under discussion, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Friday.

Sheinbaum said she had a "very good" phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday as the two countries work toward an agreement linked to the ongoing review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Mexican Foreign Minister Roberto Velasco and Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard also participated in the call.

"Progress is being made toward a potential agreement between us, Mexico, and the United States," Sheinbaum said at a news conference.

She did not disclose details of the discussion, saying the governments would not announce the agreements reached during the call until a final deal is completed.

Mexico is seeking lower U.S. tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles, while also negotiating rules of origin and measures aimed at strengthening North American supply chains.

The talks form part of the broader USMCA review, which governs trade among the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The three countries have extensive production links, particularly in industries such as automotive manufacturing, where components and finished products frequently cross borders during production.

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Rules of origin remain a key issue

Rules governing the origin of products are a central point in the negotiations, particularly for goods containing components sourced from outside North America.

Washington has pushed for stronger regional sourcing requirements, while Mexico is seeking to maintain access to the U.S. market and preserve integrated manufacturing and supply chains.

The issue has become increasingly important as the United States seeks greater regional sourcing and tighter controls on products that contain components from outside North America.

Mexico and the United States have already held several rounds of negotiations this year. During the third round in July, officials discussed economic security, labor, agriculture, electronic payment services, steel, aluminum, and automobiles.

The negotiations are taking place as Mexico works to preserve the USMCA framework while addressing sector-specific tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.

Mexico relies heavily on the United States as its main export market, making the outcome of the talks important for cross-border manufacturing and trade.

Sheinbaum has repeatedly said Mexico will defend its sovereignty during the negotiations while seeking conditions that protect Mexican workers, companies, and investment.

The discussions remain ongoing, with no final agreement publicly announced. The U.S. and Mexico are preparing for another round of USMCA talks later in September, according to reporting on the negotiations.

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