Mexican imports affected by the new tariff package fell 28.4% between January and May. For the procurement, human resources, and marketing departments, the message is clear: it’s best to plan ahead before requesting quotes.
Mexico's imports from China that fell under the new tariff schedule fell 28.4% in the first five months of 2026, according to data presented by Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard. For textiles, the decline was 13.9%.
The figure matters beyond the realm of economic policy. Every company that is replacing uniforms or putting together its corporate gift catalog is part of this equation, and year-end purchasing decisions already reflect this.
What Changed
As of January 1, Mexico has been applying revised tariffs to 1,463 tariff lines across 17 industrial sectors, with rates reaching as high as 50% in some cases. The package applies to goods from countries that do not have a trade agreement with Mexico, including China, South Korea, India, Vietnam, Thailand, and Brazil.
The federal government is seeking to replace imports and protect approximately 350,000 jobs, with the footwear, textile, and apparel industries among those it aims to revitalize.
What Can Work in Your Favor
A more active domestic industry opens up garment manufacturing options within the country. For those who purchase uniforms by the hundreds or thousands, this can mean shorter lead times, less exposure to exchange rate fluctuations, and the opportunity to review samples in person before approving a batch.
It also boosts your image. A uniform made in Mexico conveys a commitment to the local economy—a message that employees, customers, and business partners value.
What to Watch Out For
The first point is cost. Depending on the tariff classification, some imported garments, fabrics, and accessories may become more expensive, and that adjustment is reflected in the final price.
The second factor is capacity. Not all products in the lineup currently have an equivalent national offering, particularly when it comes to technical fabrics or large orders with tight deadlines.
The third factor is uncertainty. China warned in March of possible retaliation, and the review of the USMCA is still ongoing.
When it comes to promotional items, the situation calls for the same caution. According to ASI Research 2025, 85% of U.S. importers receive goods from China. The United States and China recently agreed to identify $60 billion worth of products for potential tariff reductions, but apparel, stationery, and most thermoses and cups were left off the list. The region’s dependence on China runs deep and is not expected to change overnight.
An illustrative example
Imagine a facility with 1,200 employees in the Monterrey metropolitan area that replaces its uniforms every January. In October, the facility requests quotes and discovers that the price of its usual shirt has gone up and that the delivery time has increased from six to ten weeks. The budget had already been approved, the start of the year is approaching, and the options are running out.
What would have prevented that predicament was a decision made months in advance.
How to Protect Your Budget
- Get quotes early. The more leeway you have, the more supplier and material options you can compare.
- Define clear specifications. Putting fabric, weight, colors, and sizes in writing helps prevent last-minute substitutions.
- Approve samples before production. Inspecting garments and embroidery by hand reduces the risk associated with large batches.
The Voice of Experience
At Embrotex, we have been helping companies in the region purchase uniforms and promotional items for more than 29 years. That journey has taught us that market changes are best managed with information, planning, and a supplier who is familiar with the available options.
Our team advises you on selecting garments, materials, and customization techniques, shares samples and virtual designs with you, and helps you choose the best approach for your order volume and budget.
If your company is updating its uniforms or preparing corporate gifts for 2027, get started today. Message us on WhatsApp at 811 486 5786 or visit www.embrotex.promo to get advice on planning your purchase ahead of time.
