Mexico Hits 50 Percent Car Import Tariff, President Disrupts North Sulawesi Conflict With Beijing

JAKARTA - Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum insists his government is not seeking conflict with countries planning to increase tariffs including China.

"We don't want conflict," Sheinbaum said at a press conference Thursday, September 11 morning local time.

He said the steps taken by Mexico were aimed at boosting Mexico's economy. Currently, his government is negotiating with ambassadors from countries affected by the proposed increase in tariffs.

Mexico on Wednesday announced it would raise fares on Chinese cars to a maximum level of 50% as part of a massive overhaul of import levies on hundreds of goods, impacting imports of around $52 billion.

Actions against countries that do not have trade agreements with Mexico sparked Mexico's statement announcing the move to calm its main trading partner, the United States.

"That's not the goal," Sheinbaum said when asked about this at the conference.

Mexican president stressed the measure was intended to strengthen local production capacity as part of the proposed industrial strategy before US President Donald Trump was elected last year.

"What we want is to be able to discuss various things without causing conflict," he continued.

Following the action, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said his party hoped that the two countries could cooperate.

Lin Jian emphasized that China opposes the restrictions imposed under "various excuses" and will protect its interests.