Donald Trump thrust Mexico into the spotlight of trade controversy once again last Friday. Speaking from the Oval Office, he claimed that the southern neighbor offers the United States nothing more than "spicy tamales and tomatoes," while simultaneously threatening to halt commerce with countries that maintain a trade surplus over Washington.
These remarks emerged as Trump fielded questions from journalists regarding his stance on nations with which the United States has a trade deficit.
"If we stopped trading with them, we wouldn't lose anything. All it takes is one signature. We lose $195 billion a year with Mexico. They don't have anything we truly need. I mean, they have spicy tamales, tomatoes, a couple of things... but, essentially, nothing we need," Trump declared.
The president further emphasized that the U.S. possesses all the resources necessary for self-sufficiency: "We have oil, we have everything."
Despite the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, Mexican exports to the United States soared to a historic high of $534.874 billion in 2025. However, the U.S. faced a $196.913 billion trade deficit with Mexico, marking the most substantial negative balance between the two nations.
Despite his harsh words, the Republican leader softened his tone when discussing Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, dismissing any potential severance of trade ties.
"I don't want to do that because we get along very well with the president. We like the president, we respect her a lot," Trump remarked.
On the other hand, Sheinbaum acknowledged from the National Palace last Tuesday that the relationship with Washington has had "its challenges," but she expressed trust in ongoing dialogue: "In trade matters, we maintain a permanent dialogue with the U.S. government and hope to reach an understanding."
Sheinbaum's comments referred to the upcoming review of the trade agreement between Mexico, the U.S., and Canada (USMCA), a key pillar in their economic partnership.
In July, during their last meeting, U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Mexican Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard agreed to resume discussions in September.
At that time, the Trump administration announced it would not renew the USMCA in its current form, right as the mandatory six-year review period was expiring. The reason: it believes the agreement favors its neighbors more than the United States.
"I'm not looking to renew it. We don't need anything Canada has. We don't need anything Mexico has, but they need everything we have. They have to treat us better," stated the U.S. president in June.
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S.-Mexico Trade Relations
What were Trump's views on U.S.-Mexico trade?
Trump expressed skepticism about the benefits of U.S.-Mexico trade, suggesting that Mexico offers little of value to the U.S. beyond "spicy tamales and tomatoes."
Did Trump plan to cut trade with Mexico?
Although Trump threatened to stop trade with surplus countries, he indicated no intention to sever ties with Mexico, especially due to a positive relationship with President Claudia Sheinbaum.
What are the key points of the USMCA review?
The USMCA review focuses on ensuring the trade agreement remains fair and beneficial. Trump's administration suggested changes, believing the current terms benefit Mexico and Canada more than the U.S.