Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed optimism about the possibility of reaching a trade agreement with US President Donald Trump while her chief negotiator leads the talks in Washington, after the collapse of negotiations between the United States and Canada.
“As President Trump said, we hope to reach an agreement with the United States,” she told reporters on Monday after being asked about the escalating crisis between the United States and Canada. “I am optimistic that an agreement can be reached.”
Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard, Sheinbaum’s chief trade negotiator, will remain in Washington for several days as he seeks to reduce US tariffs by 50 percent on Mexican steel and aluminum, and 25 percent on cars.
Washington’s negotiations with Ottawa collapsed in recent days, prompting Trump to say he would double tariffs on Canadian cars and parts starting next year.
The collapse also led to a 50% US tax on about $20 billion in Canadian goods, while Prime Minister Mark Carney announced retaliatory tariffs that will take effect on September 8.
