JUST IN: Karoline Leavitt Confirms: "Mexico Is Still Paying Tariffs" — Larger Trade Deal in Sight

 

Photo credit: Gage Skidmore/CC BY-SA 2.0, via Flickr

🇺🇸 Karoline Leavitt Confirms: "Mexico Is Still Paying Tariffs" — Larger Trade Deal in Sight

Washington, D.C. — In a striking announcement from the White House Press Room, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reaffirmed that Mexico continues to pay significant tariffs under the current U.S. trade framework and revealed progress toward a broader bilateral agreement.

“Mexico is still paying tariffs,” Leavitt emphasized. “They’re paying a 25% tariff on fentanyl, 25% on cars, and a 50% tariff on steel, aluminum, and copper. These are firm policies under President Trump’s administration, and they are not changing anytime soon.”

Leavitt also announced that Mexico has agreed to immediately eliminate its non-tariff trade barriers, a move she described as “long overdue” and “crucial for leveling the playing field.”

“As the President said, we will continue to talk to Mexico over the next 90 days with the goal of signing a larger trade deal,” she stated.

🔄 A Shift in U.S.–Mexico Relations

This new trade posture reflects a growing cooperation between Washington and Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum on both economic and security fronts.

Leavitt acknowledged the “increase in cooperation” on issues such as drug trafficking and human smuggling, particularly across the southern U.S. border.

“We appreciate the efforts of President Sheinbaum’s administration in working with us in good faith,” Leavitt noted, adding that this cooperation has laid the groundwork for deeper discussions on mutual interests.

🧾 What’s Next?

The 90-day window for negotiations will focus on expanding the current trade framework into a comprehensive deal—one that prioritizes American industry, protects border integrity, and rewards nations that play fair.

Leavitt ended her remarks by reiterating the administration’s position: “Mexico remains a unique partner because of our shared border, but that doesn’t exempt them from accountability. Tariffs remain in place until a better, broader deal is signed.”

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🇺🇸 FAQs: U.S.–Mexico Tariff Policy and Trade Deal Talks

Q1. Is Mexico still paying tariffs under the Trump administration?
Yes. According to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Mexico is currently paying:

• 25% tariff on fentanyl

• 25% tariff on cars

• 50% tariff on steel, aluminum, and copper

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Q2. What are non-tariff trade barriers, and what did Mexico agree to do about them?
Non-tariff trade barriers include regulations or restrictions that limit imports without imposing direct taxes (tariffs). Mexico has agreed to immediately terminate these barriers, which had previously hindered American goods from entering Mexican markets fairly.

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Q3. Is there a new trade deal between the U.S. and Mexico?
Not yet. The current tariffs remain in place. However, the U.S. and Mexico have entered a 90-day negotiation period aimed at signing a larger, long-term trade agreement.

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Q4. How does this agreement affect the southern U.S. border?
Leavitt highlighted increased cooperation between the U.S. and Mexico on border security, especially concerning drug and human trafficking. These improvements are seen as part of a broader effort to strengthen mutual ties.

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Q5. What role does Mexico's new President Claudia Sheinbaum play in this deal?
President Sheinbaum has reportedly shown good faith and commitment to working with the U.S., particularly on enforcement and economic issues. Her administration’s cooperation is seen as a key factor in advancing negotiations.

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Q6. Will the tariffs be lifted soon?
Not immediately. Tariffs will remain in place during the 90-day negotiation period. Any changes will depend on the outcomes of the larger trade deal discussions.