Mexico has sharply increased import duties on small online purchases from countries with which it lacks a trade agreement, raising the levy to 33.5% from 19% for parcels valued at up to US$2,500 that arrive by courier services. The change, published in the Diario Oficial de la Federación late on 28 July and taking effect 15 August, will chiefly hit popular Chinese fast-fashion and e-commerce platforms such as Shein and Temu. Shipments from the United States and Canada remain subject to a 17% tariff when priced between US$50 and US$117, are exempt below that threshold and face a 19% rate above it. By contrast, merchandise from China and other non-trade-agreement partners will now face the higher 33.5% charge, widening the cost gap for Mexican consumers who rely on low-value cross-border parcels. The López Obrador administration framed the measure as an update to trade rules adopted earlier this year and a response to U.S. accusations that China is routing cheap goods through Mexico to skirt American duties. Mexico is in last-minute talks to head off a 30% blanket tariff that Washington has threatened to impose from 1 August, and analysts said the tougher import regime could strengthen Mexico’s negotiating position while boosting fiscal revenue. Mexico lifted textile duties last year and has stepped up enforcement against undeclared Asian imports. Former deputy economy minister Juan Carlos Baker warned that the higher charge will ultimately be borne by lower-income shoppers who rely on budget platforms, while policy specialists see the move as part of a broader push to protect domestic industry and limit oversupply from China.