Mexico City – Preparing for Changes Ahead
As President Claudia Sheinbaum steps into a new chapter, her administration is gearing up to adjust policies in anticipation of the challenges that may arise with President-elect Trump’s return to office. The goal is to protect Mexico’s economic interests and effectively manage immigration.
With concerns about potential harmful measures from the upcoming Trump administration, Sheinbaum and her team are committed to nurturing a positive relationship with the United States while asserting Mexico’s sovereignty. During a recent press conference, she told the public there was "no reason for concern" about the election outcome, expressing confidence in maintaining stable relations. "We will work together with dialogue and respect for our sovereignties," she stated.
Rodrigo Montes de Oca, a scholar from the Baker Institute Center for the U.S. and Mexico, shared insights on the shifting dynamics. He noted that the relationship between the two nations will now encompass a broader range of issues rather than just immigration. He pointed out that former President López Obrador (AMLO) managed to center the relationship mostly on immigration, but with Trump back in office, a wider approach is expected, involving trade and security. This complexity could include Trump potentially revealing information about Mexican politicians tied to drug cartels if cooperation on these critical issues falters.
In light of Trump’s plans for stricter immigration control, Mexico may need to enhance its own immigration policies. This could mean stronger enforcement at its southern border and better collaboration with U.S. authorities to manage migration effectively. Mexico aims to balance addressing U.S. concerns while adhering to its own humanitarian commitments.
Sheinbaum has continued to implement current strategies to deter migrant caravans heading towards the U.S. This includes deploying the National Guard and other security forces to break up caravan formations at the southern border.
The Mexican government is also organizing flights to send migrants back to their home countries to minimize the number of individuals crossing Mexico towards the U.S. Mexico continues to cooperate with U.S. authorities on issues related to migration, accepting some deported migrants and working to control the influx.
Moreover, if Trump imposes tariffs on Mexican exports, particularly in the automotive industry, Mexico is considering retaliatory tariffs. Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard has indicated that such measures could significantly impact both economies.
Montes de Oca emphasized the need for Mexico to develop a comprehensive plan to tackle ongoing violence within the country. Otherwise, the nation may risk economic consequences that could complicate future negotiations of the USMCA trade deal in 2026. In response to Trump’s previous threats of military intervention against drug cartels, Mexico may also ramp up its security strategies to reduce the risk of U.S. actions.
Gerardo Fernández Noroña, the president of the Mexican Senate, remarked that while Trump poses challenges, he recognizes the importance of the U.S.-Mexico relationship and the significant support from the Mexican community in the U.S. He believes Sheinbaum has the capability to manage this relationship effectively.
Additionally, Congressman Raúl Torres highlighted the necessity for Sheinbaum’s administration to strengthen security at Mexico’s southern border. He suggested deploying the National Guard and enhancing the role of the National Migration Institute while shifting the negotiating strategy with the U.S. to focus on the economic contributions of Mexicans living in the United States.
Experts note that it is too early to predict how much Sheinbaum’s government will adjust its policies to improve relations with the U.S., particularly regarding security. Her previous commitment to continuity may create tension with the incoming Trump administration, especially as she faces the need to balance the demands of both nations.
