Auto parts manufacturers anticipate damage from tariffs on Chinese parts

Automotive parts manufacturers have proposed that Claudia Sheinbaum's administration reconsider the 50% tariff on auto parts imports from third countries, as this sector depends on foreign purchases, primarily from China, and could affect nearly 1 million jobs.

The president of the National Association of Representatives, Importers, and Distributors of Automobile Parts and Accessories (ARIDRA), Roberto de la Rosa, proposed more effectively combating illegal trade and smuggling, instead of imposing tariffs.

"The imposition of tariffs, especially on a segment as critical as auto parts, could have counterproductive effects that would negatively impact our entire economy," he said.

The aftermarket (spare parts and replacements) industry relies on imports to offer consumers a wide range of options that meet the needs of an increasingly diverse vehicle fleet, which totals 35 million units.

From ARIDRA, "we respectfully but strongly call on the Mexican authorities to reevaluate this measure. The protection of our industry cannot and should not be achieved at the expense of families' finances and the safety of motorists," De la Rosa stated.

Currently, the sector pays tariffs ranging from 0 to 35%, and the tariff is expected to rise to 50%, an increase that would inevitably translate into higher costs for workshops, distributors, and, ultimately, for the end consumer.

The aftermarket market in Mexico represents $33 billion, of which $8 billion is imported from China for the spare parts sector.

Protecting domestic industry is a priority, the businessman explained, but tariffs are neither the only nor the best tool to achieve it.

"We call for prudence and dialogue to find solutions that benefit everyone: producers, distributors, workshops, and, above all, Mexican consumers," said the ARIDRA leader.