As we enter 2025, a new wave of trade policy adjustments is reshaping the global logistics landscape. In particular, cross-border operations involving Mexican imports and exports are facing substantial tariff revisions under new executive directives and multilateral agreements. These changes are expected to elevate landed costs, disrupt procurement strategies, and pressure supply chain resilience.
At R.H. Shipping, we understand that operational success begins with real-time, reliable intelligence. This guide offers a overview of the upcoming tariff framework, the impacted product categories, and the strategic levers you can deploy to mitigate disruption.
Tariffs explained: definition and purpose
A tariff is a customs duty levied by a government on imported goods, typically used to:
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Safeguard domestic manufacturing sectors
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Correct trade imbalances
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Leverage negotiations in geopolitical and economic agreements
The 2025 adjustments reflect a tightening of global trade dynamics, with economic blocs implementing defensive trade measures to protect sensitive industries and reinforce their bargaining power in bilateral and multilateral negotiations.
2025: Products subject to tariff increases
According to recent publications from international trade bodies and specialized consultancies, the following HS-classified product segments will be significantly affected:
Industrial and Manufacturing inputs
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Processed steel and aluminum
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Heavy-duty and precision machinery (primarily of Asian origin)
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Midstream electronic components for OEMs
Agro-industrial and processed Food Goods
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Refined sugar
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Canned fruits and vegetables
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Value-added meat derivatives
Automotive and EV Supply Chain
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Drivetrain and transmission systems
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Suspension modules
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Lithium-ion and hybrid vehicle batteries
Tech and energy infrastructure
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Network and telecom equipment
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Industrial sensors and monitoring systems
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Photovoltaic modules (solar panels)
Tariff increments across these sectors range from 5% to 25%, contingent on country of origin and tariff classification codes.
Operational impact for mexican trade stakeholders
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Exporters may face reduced competitiveness in key markets due to increased foreign duties on Mexican goods.
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Importers will encounter elevated cost structures, impacting inventory planning, landed cost forecasting, and margin sustainability.
Recommended strategic actions
To maintain continuity and performance across your trade operations, consider implementing the following actions:
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Product portfolio audit
Conduct a thorough classification and compliance check with your licensed customs broker to determine exposure to the updated tariff codes. -
Supply Chain diversification
Explore origin alternatives within free trade agreement zones or tariff-exempt markets.
Our route optimization specialists can design alternative supply corridors that minimize cost. -
Supplier renegotiation
Revisit Incoterms and pricing clauses to introduce flexibility for tariff-related adjustments and currency fluctuations. -
Consolidated freight planning
Transition to bulk or consolidated shipment models to optimize freight spend and minimize per-unit cost under new tariff structures.
R.H. Shipping: Your trusted freight forwarder in transitional markets
Uncertainty creates opportunity—for those who plan ahead. With over two decades of expertise in global freight forwarding and customs advisory, R.H. Shipping partners with clients to navigate volatility through tailored, data-driven logistics strategies.
We combine regulatory foresight, multimodal planning, and on-the-ground support to help you stay competitive under evolving trade conditions.
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