Mexico’s exports grew by 3.4% in the first five months of 2025, reaching $259 billion, according to Mexico’s National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI). Imports also went up but at a slower pace, rising 0.8% to $257 billion.

This led to a trade surplus of $2.04 billion, a big improvement from the $4.46 billion deficit during the same period last year. Most of Mexico’s export growth came from manufactured goods, especially cars and machinery.

Manufacturing exports grew by 4.8%. Industrial machinery exports jumped 50.2%, and car exports rose 6.2% in the first four months. The United States remains Mexico’s biggest customer, buying about 72% of its exports.

Mexico also sent more goods to China and Europe, with exports to those regions growing by 13.7%. However, new challenges have emerged. In March and April, the United States started charging 25% tariffs on Mexican steel, aluminum, and car exports.

Many Mexican companies rushed to ship goods before these tariffs began, which pushed March exports to a record $55.5 billion. After the tariffs started, car exports dropped 10.9% in April, and car production fell by 3% earlier in the year.

Mexico’s Exports Up by 3.4% in Early 2025, Driven by Manufacturing Strength. (Photo Internet reproduction)

The steel and aluminum industries are also feeling the pressure, with higher costs and less demand from the U.S. Experts warn that if these problems continue, up to half a million jobs in the car industry could be at risk.

To deal with these changes, Mexican manufacturers are trying to sell more electronics and machinery and are looking for new customers outside the U.S.

Later this year, the United States, Mexico, and Canada will review their trade agreement (USMCA). This could bring more changes to the rules that shape trade in North America.

Mexico’s export sector is still strong, but new U.S. tariffs and possible changes to trade rules are creating uncertainty. How well Mexico adapts will decide if it can keep its export growth going and protect jobs in key industries.