Resilient and determined: Sheinbaum's approach in handling Trump's administration
Mexico City Mayor Claudia Sheinbaum, affectionately known as the "Trump whisperer," has once again demonstrated her diplomatic prowess in negotiations with U.S. President Donald Trump. Despite political differences, Sheinbaum managed to secure tariff relief for Mexico, showcasing a pragmatic approach that balances political differences with economic realities.
In a recent development, President Trump agreed to delay a 30% general tariff on imported Mexican goods for 90 days. This marks the third time Trump has granted Mexico tariff relief, a testament to Sheinbaum's effective negotiations. The delay is seen as a victory by Mexico's government.
Sheinbaum's negotiations were framed within a broader context, where both countries recognize the intertwined nature of economics and security. The aim is to maintain and strengthen the benefits of deepened supply chain integration under the USMCA trade agreement, despite policy uncertainties.
To achieve this, Sheinbaum engaged in discussions with U.S. officials, including Wayne Carney, about negotiating strategies for tariff relief ahead of deadlines. She also coordinated with major Mexican business figures, such as Carlos Slim, to outline and present planned investments in the U.S., demonstrating Mexico’s commitment to bilateral economic cooperation.
However, not all sectors of Mexico's economy have been spared from tariffs. The steel and aluminum sectors remain subject to a 50% tariff, while the automotive sector still faces a 25% levy, with discounts for parts manufactured in the United States.
Despite these challenges, Sheinbaum has managed to avoid confrontations with Trump while insisting on Mexico's sovereign rights. She has deployed thousands of border troops to address Trump's concerns about migration and drug flows, and continues to engage in dialogue with the U.S. President for a security agreement to tackle fentanyl and drug trafficking.
Marcelo Ebrard, Secretary of Economy, praised Sheinbaum's handling of conversations with Trump, her firmness in defending Mexico's interests, and her ability to convince Trump. Trump himself described Sheinbaum as a "wonderful woman."
However, not everyone shares the same optimism. Diego Marroquin, a trade expert, expressed concern that the tariff delay does not solve the issue of uncertainty and returns Mexico to the starting point.
Sheinbaum's approach seems to involve a give and take strategy. In an effort to reset the trade balance, she has suggested importing more U.S. products. The first woman president of Mexico, Andrés Manuel López Obrador's chief of government, Claudia Sheinbaum, continues to navigate the complexities of U.S.-Mexico relations with a pragmatic and diplomatic approach.
- Migration and drug trafficking continue to be major points of concern, with Claudia Sheinbaum deploying thousands of border troops to address these issues and engage in dialogue with President Trump for a security agreement.
- Despite tariff delays, sectors such as steel, aluminum, and automotive still face significant tariffs, prompting Sheinbaum to suggest importing more U.S. products as a potential solution to reset the trade balance.
- The arts and culture sector, however, remains largely untouched by the trade discussions, with Sheinbaum focusing predominantly on economics, politics, and general news, while coordinating with Mexican business figures to promote bilateral economic cooperation.
