Why politicians and industry groups are calling Mexico a ‘back door’ for Chinese EV automakers [Video]

Politicians and auto industry groups in the U.S. and Canada have upped their criticism of Mexico, expressing concern that the country is becoming a haven for Chinese automakers trying to circumvent North American tariffs on its products.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford suggested this month that Mexico be kicked out of the Canada-United States-Mexico-Agreement (CUSMA), the trilateral trade agreement that will be up for review in 2026.

Ford said that Mexico has become a “back door” for Chinese auto part makers and car manufacturers, amid a growing perception that Mexico is allowing Chinese manufacturers to set up shop on its shores to circumvent strict tariffs imposed by the U.S. and Canada.

The U.S. and Canada penalized Chinese electric vehicles, steel and aluminum this year in a bid to combat Chinese overcapacity and shore up domestic manufacturing. Some have criticized Mexico for not matching the tariffs in solidarity with its North American …