Sheinbaum will seek to negotiate a 50% tariff on copper with the U.S.

From the iconic National Palace, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum set a new course for trade relations with the United States. Faced with the imminent imposition of a 50% tariff on copper by the Donald Trump administration, the president announced that her administration is already working on a direct negotiation strategy with Washington.

"We are going to make every effort," Sheinbaum affirmed, emphasizing that Mexico has much to contribute on the international stage. Her statement not only seeks to send a message of cooperation, but also of defending economic sovereignty in the face of unilateral measures that threaten to unbalance strategic sectors.

The tariff announcement is part of a broader package that will also affect sectors such as the pharmaceutical and semiconductor industries. U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick predicted the measure could take effect as early as August 1.

Although the impact appears global, its direct impact on Mexico has raised alarm bells, especially given the importance of copper in the export chain to the neighboring country.

Sheinbaum pointed out that Mexico exports copper primarily to two destinations: China and the United States, with the Asian country being the largest recipient. In the case of the U.S., it is mostly copper scrap, a raw material that is refined and reused by the North American industry.

This raises a contradiction in the US narrative: by imposing tariffs on an input that its economy requires, key production chains within the country itself are also affected.

In an immediate response, the president announced the dispatch of a delegation led by the Ministries of Economy, Finance, and Foreign Affairs. The meeting will take place next Friday and will include bilateral meetings focused on trade, security, and migration.

The strategy seeks to contain the impact of tariffs and explore new routes for copper production and export to other markets. "It's not just about reacting, but about building alternatives that benefit Mexico," the president stated.

• Mining and metallurgical industry: risk of export contraction.
• National economy: impact on the trade surplus with the U.S.
• Diplomatic relations: tension between the Sheinbaum and Trump governments.
• Trade alternatives: opportunity to reorient exports to Europe and Asia.

Strategic key: dialogue and diversification

"The tariff situation is not exclusive to Mexico; it affects everyone," Sheinbaum clarified, but emphasized that her responsibility is to achieve the best possible negotiations with the U.S. and diversify the destinations for Mexico's copper.

In parallel, his government will implement a reindustrialization plan to strengthen domestic consumption and encourage foreign investment, especially in the pharmaceutical and high-tech industries.

The new U.S. tariff policy represents a challenge for Mexico, but also an opportunity to reposition its commercial leadership, strengthen alliances, and increase the value of its mining industry. With dialogue, pragmatism, and geostrategic vision, Sheinbaum is embarking on her first major international test as head of state.