Mexico has raised tariffs by up to 35 per cent on finished clothing products and 15 per cent on textile imports to protect its domestic textile industry, Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard announced.

The tariff increases, effective until April 22, 2026, aim to counter unfair competition and reduce job losses in the sector, which has seen a decline of 79,000 jobs in recent years.

The move exempts countries with free trade agreements, like the US and Canada, and is not targeted at any specific nation, including China.

Ebrard emphasized that the measure seeks to boost national industry development and job creation. The tariff hikes align with efforts to strengthen the North American trade bloc amid concerns over Chinese imports.

Mexico has also stepped up efforts to combat illegal merchandise, particularly from China, as part of its broader trade and immigration strategy.