Tariffs 2025–2026: How to Protect Your Margin and Leverage Nearshoring

The New Board (and Why It Matters)

Mexico is raising tariffs on countries without FTAs and closing "shortcuts" like temporary importation of footwear through IMMEX. The signal is clear: protect sensitive sectors, order imports, and make Mexico the most competitive gateway to North America.

Window of Opportunity

With global tariff pressure and the T-MEC review in 2026, supply chains that standardize quality, origin, and traceability will capture replacement orders and multi-year contracts.

Impact by Sector

• Automotive/EV: Strict rules favor suppliers with IATF/ISO certifications.

• Steel/Aluminum/Glass: Fewer imported distortions; integrate composition testing.

• Textile/Apparel/Footwear: End of "IMMEX footwear" forces relocation.

• Plastics/Chemicals: NOM and laboratory up to date reduce rejections and hidden costs.

Winning Strategy

From "buy cheap" to "buy eligible": prioritize qualified origin, standards, and clean data.

30–60–90 Day Checklist

• 30: Audit fractions, rules of origin, and value supports.

• 60: Diversify to FTA suppliers; sign SLAs with audited evidence.

• 90: Simulate scenarios (tariff, freight, exchange rate); renegotiate contracts.