Pharr EDC: Immediate Effects of Tariffs and Logistical Adjustments on Mexican Exports

During a panel at the 31st Mexican Foreign Trade Congress, specialists evaluated the implications for Mexican companies following the recent imposition of tariffs in the United States. The discussion focused on potential effects on export operations and the need to strengthen short-term logistical diagnostics.

The most notable participation was that of Lilvette Santos, Director of Business Development at Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC), who emphasized that the tariff imposition requires companies to closely review their production chains and logistical traceability, particularly those linked to sensitive sectors such as manufacturing, food products, and medical devices.

Impact of Tariffs on Mexican Exports

Santos explained that cost pressure requires immediate action. She noted that companies are already prioritizing the evaluation of inventories, transit times, and response capacity in the face of border delays.

“Companies are feeling the pressure of rising costs and must react by identifying their vulnerable points,” Santos stated.

She also highlighted that the current situation may accelerate the search for regional suppliers and strengthen collaboration between local governments, business chambers, and industrial developers in order to sustain export flows to the United States.

Santos added that Pharr EDC maintains constant communication with companies to anticipate adjustments and provide updated information regarding logistical conditions at the Pharr–Reynosa crossing.

The session was moderated by Carlos Becerra, who guided the conversation toward the need to integrate logistical, diplomatic, and financial perspectives into corporate planning.

Pharr EDC and Border Logistics Management

During his remarks, Philipp Schukat, Coordinator of the Climate Cluster of the German Agency for International Cooperation in Mexico (GIZ), noted that in contexts of commercial pressure, Mexico must continue aligning industrial strategies with energy efficiency and sustainability objectives. He highlighted that companies integrating environmental improvements into operations may mitigate part of the cost impacts.

Meanwhile, Marité Chavira Mendoza, Director of the ESG Office at Banamex, stressed that the current scenario requires considering financial risks derived from logistical disruptions and tariff modifications. She noted that the banking sector is working on mechanisms to support industries needing liquidity or financing for operational adjustments.

Throughout the discussion, panelists agreed that close monitoring of border conditions and strengthening infrastructure will be critical to reducing adverse impacts. Although no widespread changes in export volumes have yet been observed, companies are already evaluating scenarios to define operational responses.