Background on Claudia Sheinbaum and her Relevance
Claudia Sheinbaum is the current Head of Government (equivalent to Mayor) of Mexico City, serving since 2018. As a prominent political figure and representative of Mexico’s capital, her decisions and actions have significant implications for both the local and national levels. Her role in addressing the recent 50% tariff increase on steel and aluminum imports by the United States highlights her importance in maintaining bilateral relations between Mexico and the US.
Key Developments
On June 3, Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed that the recent 50% tariff hike on US imports of steel and aluminum will be a central topic in the upcoming Mexico-US bilateral dialogue. This discussion is scheduled to take place during the visit of Christopher Landau, the US Under Secretary of State, on June 11.
Preparatory Measures
- On June 4, Sheinbaum met with representatives from steel and aluminum industry chambers to assess the economic impact and discuss potential protective measures.
- The meeting took place at Mexico’s Palacio Nacional, with federal officials present and business leaders joining virtually from various locations across the country.
Industry Concerns and Government Support
During the meeting, industry leaders expressed concern over the possible impact on the value chain and requested federal government support to protect jobs in the sector while negotiations with the US continue.
Sheinbaum reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to preserving economic stability amidst any scenario, emphasizing openness to supporting the productive sector.
Key Participants
- Víctor Cairo, Salvador Quesada, and Bernardo Martínez from the National Chamber of Iron and Steel Industry.
- Eugenio Clariond Rangel from the Mexican Aluminum Institute.
- Julio Martínez from the National Chamber of Aluminum Industry.
- Executives from companies such as Ternium, Tyasa, Recal Estructuras, Frisa Forge, Grupo Acerero, Deacero, Villacero, Tubacero, Fortacero, and Tenaris.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main topic of discussion between Mexico and the US? The recent 50% tariff increase on steel and aluminum imports by the United States.
- Who will Claudia Sheinbaum discuss this issue with? Christopher Landau, the US Under Secretary of State.
- When will this discussion take place? During Landau’s visit to Mexico on June 11.
- What were the concerns raised by industry leaders? The possible impact on the value chain and the need for protective measures to safeguard jobs in the sector.
- What is Sheinbaum’s administration’s stance on the situation? The administration aims to preserve economic stability and is open to supporting the productive sector.
