India Responds to Mexico’s Tariff Hike: ‘Will Take Appropriate Measures’

India has reacted to Mexico’s move to raise import tariffs on Indian goods to 50 percent, stating that it will hold discussions aimed at protecting the interests of exporters from both countries. According to media reports, Indian officials have made it clear that New Delhi reserves the right to take appropriate steps to safeguard its exporters if required, while continuing dialogue with Mexico in a constructive manner.

Mexico had earlier proposed increasing tariffs on several products imported from Asian countries that do not have a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with it, including India, China, South Korea, Thailand, and Indonesia. These proposals were introduced in the Mexican Senate as early as September. Since then, India has reportedly been in talks with Mexican authorities. The Indian Embassy in Mexico raised the issue with Mexico’s Finance Ministry on September 30, seeking special exemptions or relief for Indian exports from the proposed higher tariffs.

An Indian official stated that India places high value on its partnership with Mexico and is ready to work together for stable and mutually beneficial trade that supports businesses and consumers in both nations. India has also expressed interest in initiating discussions on a bilateral Free Trade Agreement with Mexico. Meanwhile, a high-level meeting reportedly took place between India’s Special Secretary for Commerce, Rajesh Agrawal, and Mexico’s Deputy Economy Minister Luis Rosendo, with more meetings expected in the coming days. Mexico, as part of its domestic manufacturing push, is considering higher tariffs on nearly 1,400 products from several Asian countries, including India.