The White House has reaffirmed its commitment to working “in good faith” with Mexico following a recent phone call between US President Donald Trump and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. The two leaders discussed a temporary extension of existing tariffs and pledged continued dialogue toward a comprehensive trade agreement.
Speaking at a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the “unique” nature of the US-Mexico relationship, citing their shared southern border and increasing bilateral cooperation on tackling drug and human trafficking.
“We’ve seen an increase in cooperation between Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, and our administration on clamping down on drug trafficking and human trafficking at the southern border. We appreciate those efforts and will continue to work in good faith and continue to have these trade discussions,” Leavitt stated.
The US President, in a Truth Social post, described his conversation with President Sheinbaum as “very successful” and confirmed that the existing trade terms have been extended for an additional 90 days. During this period, Mexico will continue paying:
- 25% tariff on fentanyl,
- 25% tariff on cars,
- 50% tariff on steel, aluminium, and copper.
Additionally, Mexico has agreed to immediately eliminate its non-tariff trade barriers, which the US claims were numerous.
Trump expressed hope that a formal trade agreement could be signed within the 90-day window, or soon after, depending on the outcome of negotiations.
He also noted the presence of several senior officials during the conversation, including Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
The President reaffirmed that US-Mexico cooperation would continue across key areas of border security, including drug enforcement, distribution networks, and efforts to combat illegal immigration into the United States.
