Mexican exports of steel and aluminum to the United States registered declines of 29% and 20%, respectively, during the first seven months of 2025, a drop attributed to tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump, according to data from the US Department of Commerce (DoC).
The tariffs, applied under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, were initially set at 25% in March 2025 before being increased to 50% in June 2025. As a result, the value of Mexican steel exports fell to US$1.59 billion, and aluminum exports dropped to US$403 million between January and July.
This decrease has impacted Mexico’s ranking as a supplier to the US market. In steel, Mexico was surpassed by the European Union, Canada, and South Korea. In aluminum, it ranked below seven competitors, including Canada and the European Union, reports El Economista.
The tariffs have generated mixed reactions in the United States. While some US steel producers support the measures as crucial for boosting domestic production, other business groups argue that the tariffs have created compliance burdens and could harm employment in industries that rely on steel and aluminum.
The Section 232 tariffs were originally imposed in 2018, citing national security concerns. While several countries, including Mexico, had previously negotiated exemptions, those are no longer in effect under the current, expanded tariff regime.
https://mexicobusiness.news/mining/news/mexican-steel-exports-us-down-29-aluminum-down-20