The Ministry of Economy processed 63 proceedings related to unfair international trade practices in 2024.
Of that total, 31 correspond to anti-dumping; 9 to validity reviews; 12 to ex officio validity reviews; 10 to reviews, and 1 to subsidies.
According to the World Trade Organization (WTO), an unfair international trade practice occurs when a country or company engages in dumping or subsidies that distort prices and harm competitors. These actions affect trade, harm local industries, and may face anti-dumping or countervailing measures.
Unfair international trade practices
In 2024, Mexican imports of goods reached $625.3 billion. Growth was concentrated in five key categories: electrical and electronic equipment, machinery and reactors, motor vehicles, plastics, and fuels.
In addition, the Ministry of Economy applied five definitive countervailing duties. Four were directed at products originating in China, such as rigid PVC, threaded rods, concrete nails, and pneumatic tires. The fifth was imposed on imports of micro-welding wire from China and Vietnam.
Foreign competition
At the same time, Mexico reinforced its strategy against unfair practices to protect domestic industry. Firm measures were implemented. These included tariffs on 155 categories of textile and apparel products from countries without trade agreements.
Enforcement operations were also carried out, resulting in the seizure of illegal merchandise. Customs surveillance was also strengthened. IMMEX companies were audited, reference prices were established to detect undervaluation, and inter-institutional actions were coordinated to close loopholes for illicit trade.
Through the IMMEX program, producers of goods for export, as well as companies that offer related services, can temporarily import various inputs without paying general import taxes. In addition, where applicable, they are also exempt from paying anti-dumping or countervailing duties. These goods are used in the manufacture or provision of products and services that will be exported, which facilitates competitiveness and reduces operating costs.
On the other hand, the Ministry of Economy documented 128 actions to defend the country’s commercial interests. These included six appeals for revocation, 34 requests for domestic production or compliance, 24 domestic challenges, and 64 international assistance requests.
This demonstrated the implementation of actions aimed at ensuring fair competition, as well as promoting investigations into unfair international trade practices.