Overview of the Mexican Automotive Industry’s Current State
The Mexican automotive industry is experiencing uncertainty due to tariff concerns, as reported by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) on Tuesday. In August, light vehicle production decreased by 0.8%, while exports increased by 1.4% compared to the same month last year.
Production Figures
- During August of the current year, companies operating in Mexico produced 349,856 units, a decrease from the 352,615 vehicles assembled in August of 2024.
- Despite the production drop in August, the assembly volume places August 2025 as the fourth highest production month, according to the Mexican Automotive Industry Association (AMIA).
Export Performance
INEGI reported a 1.4% growth in exports, with 296,796 units shipped abroad in August.
- This volume represents the second-best historical result for an August month, only surpassed by 2018, according to data from 22 affiliated companies and six unaffiliated companies representing 39 car brands produced and marketed in Mexico.
Brand-Specific Impact
Honda had the most significant impact on outbound vehicle shipments, primarily due to tariffs on exports to the US, which fell by 24.6% in August. Volkswagen followed with an 18.7% decrease, and General Motors with a 14.2% drop. Toyota also experienced a 5.5% reduction, while Mercedes Benz cut its shipments by 33.8%.
Year-to-Date Performance
From January to August, the automotive industry has produced over 2.6 million units, reflecting a 0.5% growth compared to the same period in 2024. This represents the best historical result for the first eight months of the year since the Registro Administrativo de la Industria Automotriz de Vehículos Ligeros (RAIAVL) was established.
Export Accumulation
In terms of exports, over 2.2 million units have been shipped abroad year-to-date. Although this figure represents a 1% decrease compared to the same period in 2024, AMIA noted that the January-August performance remains stable given the international context.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the current state of Mexico’s automotive industry? The industry is facing uncertainty due to tariff concerns, with a 0.8% decrease in light vehicle production and a 1.4% increase in exports in August.
- Which brands were most affected by tariff changes? Honda experienced the most significant impact, followed by Volkswagen, General Motors, Toyota, and Mercedes Benz.
- How does the year-to-date performance compare to 2024? The industry has produced over 2.6 million units, a 0.5% increase compared to the same period in 2024, marking the best historical result for the first eight months of the year.
- What is the export performance for 2025 so far? Over 2.2 million units have been exported, representing a 1% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. However, AMIA considers the January-August performance stable given the international context.
