Mexico's Foreign Secretary to visit China amid trade tensions

Mexican Foreign Secretary Roberto Velasco is scheduled to conduct a working visit to China on September 7. This marks his first trip to the country since assuming office in April. During the visit, Velasco will meet with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to strengthen political dialogue and cooperation agendas. He is also expected to inaugurate the Mexican Consulate in Chongqing.

The diplomatic mission occurs amid heightened trade tensions. Mexico recently implemented tariffs on several countries without trade agreements, including China, a move intended to protect domestic industries such as automotive, steel, footwear, and textiles. While Mexican authorities state these measures are not directed at any specific nation, Beijing has criticized the policy and warned of potential reprisals.

According to Mexican Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard, imports from China affected by these new tariffs fell by 28% during the first five months of 2026. The administration of President Claudia Sheinbaum has defended the tariffs as a strategy to substitute imports and protect approximately 350,000 jobs.