PAN Criticizes Mexico's Plan as Insufficient to Counteract US Tariffs
The National Action Party (PAN) is currently expressing reservations regarding the Mexican government's plan to mitigate the economic impact of tariffs imposed by the United States. According to Milenio (2024), while PAN acknowledges the plan as a step in the right direction, they deem it insufficient to fully protect the national economy, particularly the automotive industry. This sentiment is echoing through the political landscape as discussions intensify about the best course of action.
PAN's Proposed Solutions
Jorge Romero, the president of Acción Nacional, is presently emphasizing that his party is proposing concrete actions designed to safeguard employment, stimulate national production, and support the automotive industry. Romero is stating that the current plan, while appreciated, falls short of providing adequate protection for the nation’s economy, especially the automotive sector, which is one of the most strategic industries in the country.
«The Plan México announced by the federal government in response to the new wave of tariffs promoted by President Donald Trump represents a good step, but it is insufficient to fully protect the national economy, particularly the automotive industry, one of the most strategic in the country,» stated Jorge Romero, president of Acción Nacional (Milenio, 2024).
PAN is currently advocating for a more unified and forceful response to defend national interests and secure the employment of countless families. The party’s stance is clear: Mexico must come first, and mutual support is crucial. Romero is insisting that the federal government needs to act with greater resolve and urgency given the real threat to Mexican exports.
Specific Measures Proposed by PAN
To bolster the automotive industry and alleviate the economic impact of the tariffs, PAN is enumerating a series of fiscal incentives and direct support measures. These are being designed to aid micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) within the automotive sector, with the goal of fostering production, innovation, and exports.
Key proposals currently being highlighted include:
- Tax Deductions: PAN is suggesting a 100% deduction in Income Tax (ISR) for companies to cover expenses generated by the new tariffs.
- Tax Suspension: A temporary suspension of the New Automobile Tax (ISAN) is being proposed when tariffs exceed 10%, aiming to stimulate the domestic market and preserve jobs.
- Fuel Tax Reduction: Reduction of the Special Tax on Production and Services (IEPS) on fuels is being suggested to prevent increases in logistical costs and protect the national supply chain.
- Unemployment Support: The creation of unemployment insurance and temporary employment programs to safeguard workers in the automotive sector is also being promoted.
Call for Unity and Decisive Action
The national leader of PAN is reiterating the party’s willingness to collaborate with the federal government on a more comprehensive and effective strategy. According to Fernando Damián (Milenio, 2024), the current situation demands unity and a clear defense of the national industry, urging that it is not a time for political calculations, but rather a moment to propose and demand what the country needs.
«This is not a time for political calculations; it is a time for unity and to defend the national industry with all clarity. We are not going to criticize for the sake of criticizing; we are going to propose and demand what the country needs,» stated Jorge Romero (Milenio, 2024).
PAN is urging that the consequences of a hostile and protectionist trade policy, which threatens the well-being of millions of Mexicans, must be confronted with seriousness. The party is asserting that if the United States hardens its trade policy, Mexico must strengthen its economic defenses. The ongoing dialogue is reflecting a sense of urgency and a call for more robust measures to protect Mexico's economic interests.
Looking Ahead
As discussions continue, the focus is remaining on finding solutions that will safeguard Mexican jobs and ensure the stability of key industries. The coming weeks are expected to be critical as government officials and PAN representatives continue to negotiate and refine strategies to address the economic challenges posed by US tariffs. The outcome of these discussions is poised to significantly impact Mexico's economic future and its relationship with its northern neighbor.
Reference
Milenio. (2024). Insuficiente, el Plan México, para mitigar impacto de aranceles: PAN. Retrieved from https://www.milenio.com/politica/insuficiente-plan-mexico-para-mitigar-impacto-de-aranceles-pan
