Background on Key Players and Relevance
The automotive industry in Mexico has experienced a 6.1% decrease in light vehicle production during September 2025, as tariffs imposed by the United States on Mexican cars and the uncertainty surrounding the T-MEC review have impacted the sector. Major automakers like General Motors, Volkswagen, and Mazda have been affected, with production reductions ranging from 11.5% to 17.7%. These tariffs have also led to labor strikes as these companies face reduced sales in the U.S. market.
Production and Export Data
According to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (Inegi), Mexico produced 355,525 light vehicles in September 2025, marking a 6.1% decrease compared to the same month in 2024. Export numbers for light vehicles also saw a slight decline of 0.3%, totaling 314,656 units in September 2025 compared to 315,782 in September 2024.
- Key Automakers and Their Production Changes:
- General Motors: -16.9%
- Volkswagen: -17.7%
- Mazda: -11.5%
- Export Performance:
- Mazda: 46.4% fewer shipments
- BMW: 34.6% fewer shipments
- Honda: 21.4% fewer shipments
Production and Export Trends Over Time
From January to September 2025, Mexico has produced 3,021,554 light vehicles, showing a slight decrease of 0.3% compared to the same period in 2024. The country has exported over 2.5 million units, with a 0.9% decrease compared to the same period in 2024.
Impact on U.S. Market and Future Uncertainties
Mexican-made vehicles accounted for 20% of total U.S. auto sales in recent months, up from an average of 17% in previous months. The Automotive Industry Association (AMIA) president, Rogelio Garza, has expressed concerns about the T-MEC review process, as there is a possibility of stricter rules of origin in automobile manufacturing. Currently, 75% of auto content is from North America, but Chinese components are often excluded.
Key Questions and Answers
- What caused the drop in Mexican auto production? Tariffs imposed by the United States on Mexican cars and uncertainty surrounding the T-MEC review have negatively impacted the automotive industry in Mexico.
- Which automakers were most affected by the tariffs? General Motors, Volkswagen, and Mazda experienced significant production reductions ranging from 11.5% to 17.7%.
- How did Mexican auto exports perform in September 2025? Export numbers for light vehicles saw a slight decline of 0.3%, totaling 314,656 units.
- What is the current status of Mexican vehicles in the U.S. market? Mexican-made vehicles accounted for 20% of total U.S. auto sales in recent months.
- What are the concerns regarding the T-MEC review process? There is a possibility of stricter rules of origin in automobile manufacturing, which currently rely on 75% North American content but often exclude Chinese components.
