President-elect Donald Trump declared victory in his efforts to stop illegal immigration through Mexico after a conversation with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. However, Sheinbaum made it clear that Mexico was already taking steps to address the issue and had no intention of closing its borders in response to Trump’s threats.
The conversation between the two leaders came shortly after Trump threatened to impose new tariffs on Canada and Mexico as part of his crackdown on illegal immigration and drug trafficking. Sheinbaum responded swiftly, stating that any tariffs imposed by the U.S. would be met with reciprocal measures from Mexico, emphasizing that there was no subordination in their relationship.
In his social media posts, Trump claimed that Sheinbaum had agreed to stop migration through Mexico, effectively closing the southern border. However, Sheinbaum clarified on social media that she had simply explained Mexico’s existing efforts to address the migration phenomenon and assist migrants and caravans before they reach the border. She reiterated Mexico’s stance on building bridges between governments and peoples, rather than closing borders.
While Trump’s posts about the conversation led to fluctuations in financial markets, the only specific policy referenced by either leader was Trump’s plan to launch a national ad campaign warning against the dangers of fentanyl use. Sheinbaum mentioned reinforcing cooperation on security issues and the campaign to prevent fentanyl consumption in her message.
Illegal migration across the U.S.-Mexico border has decreased, in part due to increased cooperation between the U.S. and Mexico. Arrivals at the border have dropped by 40% from a peak last December, with Mexican vigilance around rail yards and highway checkpoints playing a significant role. Mexican authorities have also redirected migrants to southern Mexico as a strategy to dissuade them from continuing north.
While neither leader outlined firm plans for new tariffs in their social media posts, the implementation of such measures could lead to higher prices for American consumers and slow economic growth. Trump had previously announced plans to impose a 25% tax on products from Canada and Mexico, as well as an additional 10% tariff on China related to fentanyl production.
The potential impact of these tariffs on the trade agreement among the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, finalized during Trump’s previous term in office, remains uncertain. The United States has imported significant amounts of goods from all three countries, with Mexico accounting for $378.9 billion, China for $322.2 billion, and Canada for $309.3 billion in imports through September.
Overall, while Trump’s claims of victory in stopping illegal immigration through Mexico may have sparked market reactions, the true implications of his proposed tariffs and the ongoing discussions between the U.S. and Mexico remain to be seen. Both leaders emphasized the importance of cooperation and dialogue in addressing shared challenges, with a focus on security, migration, and drug trafficking.
