During the morning press conference on Monday, March 3, at the National Palace, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum addressed concerns regarding deportations and the potential impact of U.S. tariffs. Accompanied by Iván Escalante, head of the Federal Consumer Protection Agency (Profeco), Sheinbaum disclosed that since Donald Trump assumed the U.S. presidency on January 20, a total of 19,663 migrants have been deported from the United States to Mexico.
Of these deportees, 15,611 are Mexican nationals, while 4,052 come from other countries. On Sunday, March 2 alone, 313 individuals were expelled. Sheinbaum further explained that the government would assess whether existing migrant reception centers should be maintained or reduced, depending on their effectiveness in accommodating returnees.
What Did Trump Say About Migration in February?
President Donald Trump recently stated that February marked the lowest month for migrant apprehensions at the U.S.-Mexico border. According to his administration, U.S. Border Patrol reported only 8,326 apprehensions, all of whom were subsequently expelled.
This reduction in detentions was presented as a success by Trump, reinforcing his administration’s strict immigration policies. Meanwhile, Mexico continues to navigate the consequences of these deportations while maintaining ongoing dialogue with U.S. authorities.
Will Tariffs Be Imposed on Mexican Goods?
As the deadline for the potential implementation of tariffs approaches, President Sheinbaum has urged calm and patience. “Anything is possible,” she stated, emphasizing that Mexico has multiple contingency plans in place.
With tariffs possibly taking effect on March 4, Sheinbaum cited the famous phrase from the comic character Kalimán: “Serenity and patience, my dear SolÃn.” She did not rule out direct communication with President Trump before the deadline.
Sheinbaum reassured the public that Mexico remains in constant contact with U.S. officials from both the security and trade sectors. “In this situation, we need composure, serenity, and patience. We have Plan A, Plan B, Plan C, and even Plan D. We will wait for today’s developments,” she affirmed.
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What Is Mexico’s Strategy to Handle Potential Tariffs?
President Sheinbaum emphasized that Mexico is prepared for all possible scenarios and urged against spreading uncertainty. “This is a decision that depends on the U.S. government,” she stated, reinforcing Mexico’s unity in facing the challenge.
“We have a plan, and we have unity in Mexico,” she declared, ensuring that the country is well-prepared for any outcome. She also highlighted the strength of the Mexican economy, asserting that it remains stable despite external pressures.
When asked about the final decision on tariffs, Sheinbaum reiterated, “Who does the tariff decision depend on? On President Trump.”
She concluded by affirming her confidence in Mexico’s economic resilience and the coordinated efforts of her administration, reassuring businesses and citizens that the country is well-positioned to respond to any trade-related challenges imposed by the U.S.
