Mexican auto exports slump 12% in September as US tariffs take toll
GM•Mexico’s auto exports fell 12% year on year in September, the steepest decline so far this year, while output dropped 15% and domestic sales rose 8%. Mexican cars face effective US tariffs of 10% to 12% during USMCA review talks.
1. Exports and production fall
Mexico’s auto exports fell 12% in September from a year earlier, while monthly output slumped 15%, data from statistics office INEGI showed. Domestic auto sales increased 8%, helping buffer the industry’s decline.
2. Tariffs weigh on industry
Mexican cars face tariffs of 25%, though Mexican officials estimate that meeting North American parts rules reduces the burden to 10% to 12%. Economic analyst Janneth Quiroz said tariff uncertainty had affected production and export decisions, and called the September data a warning sign rather than a crisis signal.
3. Company and market details
General Motors, Ford and Nissan posted significant export declines in September, while Kia, BMW and Mazda picked up exports; Mazda more than doubled its monthly shipments. Mexico supplied 16% of US light vehicles, while exports to the US declined 5% in the first nine months of 2026 and Canadian purchases rose just over 9%.
