A 25% tariff on medium and heavy trucks imported into the United States took effect on November 1, a measure particularly affecting Mexico, where manufacturers primarily produce medium-tonnage vehicles for US brands, El Financiero reported.

The new customs duties apply to trucks ranging from class 3 to class 8, plus related components.

The measure, forming part of President Donald Trump's trade offensive, had been postponed several times. Trump initially stated the levies would take effect in October, finally confirming the November 1 implementation date early last month.

Trump's action stems from an investigation initiated in April by the US Commerce Department regarding heavy truck imports.

The investigation, conducted under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, permits imposing import taxes on goods considered critical to national security.

The inquiry focused on medium and heavy trucks weighing over 10,000 pounds plus spare parts, claiming a 'small number' of foreign suppliers constituted most US imports due to 'predatory trade practices'.

Although 99% of heavy truck production by four major manufacturers—Daimler Truck North America, International, Paccar and Volvo—occurs in the United States, much of Ford, General Motors (GM) and Stellantis' medium truck production originates in Mexico.

From January to July, the United States imported $32.41bn in trucks, buses and special vehicles, of which nearly 80%, or $25.86bn, came from Mexico, according to US Commerce Department data.

These tariffs threaten an industry already suffering impacts from steel and aluminium tariffs alongside stricter environmental regulations. However, measure proponents claim it will strengthen domestic manufacturing.

The announcement generates concern amongst Mexican manufacturers and authorities, as Mexico is the principal supplier of medium trucks for US brands including Ford, General Motors and Stellantis.

By contrast, 99% of heavy trucks from companies including Daimler Truck North America, International, Paccar and Volvo are produced within US territory, meaning direct impact on those firms will be lesser.

The US government implemented a 25% tariff on trucks and 10% on buses following the Trump administration's Section 232 investigation to evaluate these imports' national security impact.

Trump has utilised this mechanism, under the 1962 Trade Expansion Act, to apply tariffs on various products aiming to protect domestic industry and sanction countries that, according to his government, benefit unfairly from US trade.

Besides trucks and buses, steel and aluminium sectors already face 50% tariffs, whilst automobiles are levied at 25%.

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