Toyota Hopes for Government Assistance to Address Car Import Tariffs in Mexico

KatadataOTO – Mexico is implementing a protectionist system for its domestic automotive industry by tightening vehicle import regulations. This move was made due to the large number of CBU (Completely Built-Up) cars entering, especially from the Asian region.

This policy, as acknowledged by Toyota Indonesia, has the potential to impact the country's vehicle industry. This is because Mexico is one of the main export destination countries.

“We are currently studying the developments of this policy thoroughly. Toyota Indonesia cannot comment yet but will continue to coordinate with various stakeholders,” said Bob Azam, Vice President Director of PT Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia (TMMIN) to KatadataOTO (06/01).

He also revealed that the current global economic conditions are indeed full of challenges. Nevertheless, his party will continue to optimize export performance to support the development of the domestic automotive industry.

Photo: KatadataOTO

“Our focus is to maintain the sustainability of exports while prioritizing product quality, efficiency, and competitiveness,” he later said.

He also revealed that the automotive industry needs government support to overcome a number of challenges.

“We hope for government support, especially in facing the challenges of global protectionism. This needs to be strengthened so that the national automotive industry, including Toyota's exports, continues to grow sustainably,” he added.

Impact Not Immediately Felt

Although acknowledging that the protectionist system implemented by Mexico could hinder vehicle exports from Indonesia, Toyota believes the impact will not be felt immediately. This is because, according to him, automotive products cannot be easily replaced.

Moreover, they will provide a variety of products to meet market needs in other regions. Thus, car exports can continue to grow in the future.

“Along with the increasing mobility needs and diversification of export markets, the competitiveness of Indonesian automotive products must continue to be improved. Including through the development of environmentally friendly vehicles,” added Bob Azam.

Photo: Special

It should be noted that from January to November 2025, Toyota has exported at least 159,366 cars. That number is an increase of 8,020 units compared to the same period the previous year, or about 5.3 percent.

Toyota has also become the manufacturer that ships the most vehicles abroad. They control 35.3 percent of the total national car exports.