Elías Camhaji, a journalist for El País based in Mexico City, offers deep insights into Mexico's trade dynamics with the U.S. He discusses the parallels and distinctions between Canada and Mexico in dealing with American tariffs. The conversation dives into how these tariffs impact Mexico's strategies against drug trafficking, especially fentanyl, and the role of the National Guard along the border. Camhaji also highlights the shift from initial panic to resilience among Mexicans as they navigate their evolving relationship with the U.S.
The pause in U.S. tariffs has created temporary relief in Mexico, significantly impacting President Sheinbaum's approval ratings and fostering a sense of nationalism.
Despite aggressive measures against fentanyl trafficking, skepticism remains about Mexico's ability to fully address the drug crisis amid U.S. pressures.
Deep dives
Tariff Negotiations and Their Impact
The recent pause in tariffs imposed by the U.S. government has led to a mix of relief and uncertainty within Mexico. This temporary halt allowed President Claudia Sheinbaum to hold a celebratory rally, illustrating a momentary victory for the nation amid ongoing tensions. However, the looming threat of tariffs being reinstated creates anxiety among citizens and officials as they anticipate potential repercussions for both the economy and public sentiment. The Mexican government is keenly aware of its precarious position, given that 80% of its exports go to the U.S., making any escalation in trade tensions significantly impactful.
Fentanyl Control Measures
Significant measures have been taken by President Sheinbaum's administration to combat fentanyl trafficking, which is a major point of contention in U.S.-Mexico relations. Her government has actively arrested drug lords and made record seizures of fentanyl, showcasing a more aggressive stance on crime compared to previous administrations. Nevertheless, experts remain skeptical about the long-term efficacy of enforcement tactics, questioning whether these actions will ultimately address the demand for drugs in the U.S. This complex situation raises concerns about sovereignty, with some arguing that external pressure from the U.S. compromises Mexico's ability to manage its own drug crisis.
Nationalism and Political Ramifications
Recent events have fostered a surge in nationalism within Mexico, paralleled by similar sentiments in Canada as citizens rally against U.S. threats. Sheinbaum’s rising approval ratings reflect a sentiment where the population feels united against external pressures, embodying a solidarity reminiscent of historical relations with the U.S. The public has shown a willingness to support government initiatives to preserve national dignity, partly fueled by Trump's perceived confrontational stance. This newfound solidarity not only bolsters Sheinbaum's leadership but may also influence future approaches to U.S.-Mexico relations as both nations navigate their interconnected destinies.
As Canadians grapple with the ongoing threat of American tariffs, south of the U.S., Mexicans are dealing with the same thing. Today we look at the similarities and differences in the situations both countries are facing, the different ways our leaders are dealing with Trump, and the surprising impacts the tariff threat may be having in Mexico’s war on drugs.
Elías Camhaji, a reporter with the newspaper El País based in Mexico City, joins us.