China defends Mexico trade after Trump pledges fresh tariffs

President-elect's move overshadows Apple CEO's Beijing visit, hits manufacturing shares

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Cars and containers at Mexico's port of Lazaro Cardenas. China says its products have "played an important role in the development of Mexico's manufacturing industry and enhanced its trade competitiveness." © Reuters

WATARU SUZUKI, Nikkei staff writer

SHANGHAI -- China's foreign ministry on Tuesday said that its Mexico-bound exports had propelled the development of the North American country, obliquely pushing back after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump made a fresh tariff threat.

The former and next president had said on Monday that he would immediately impose a 25% levy on all products coming from Mexico, as well as Canada. He also accused Beijing of not following through on promises to stem the flow of illicit drugs into the U.S. through Mexico, promising to charge China "an additional 10% tariff, above any additional tariffs," until they stop.

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