Beijing: China affirmed on Thursday that it "firmly opposes" any "coercion" after the Mexican government announced it was considering a significant increase in tariffs on Chinese cars under pressure from the United States. "We firmly oppose any restrictions imposed by other countries under any pretext that violate China's legitimate rights and interests," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said. "We will resolutely defend our interests according to the situation," he said during a regular press conference. However, the spokesman emphasized that Beijing attaches "great importance" to Sino-Mexican relations and is willing to "make concerted efforts" with Mexico on economic issues.
According to Yemen News Agency, the Mexican Ministry of Economy had previously proposed raising tariffs to 50%, from the current range of 15% to 20%. This measure was included in a bill submitted to Congress and unveiled on Wednesday. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced last March that her government would review tariffs on Chinese goods. This came amid US pressure to prevent Mexico from becoming a conduit for Chinese goods entering the United States.
Mexico is one of the countries most affected by the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, as 80% of its exports go to the United States.