Hot Sale: A test for businesses facing pressure from tariffs
Hot Sale 2025 began under pressure never seen before. The May 26–June 3 online sales campaign served as a true litmus test for Mexican e-commerce in addition to providing a chance to create cash flow and clear out inventory.
The current climate, which is characterized by tensions in international commerce and a new tariff policy that has changed the dynamics of global trade, presents a logistical, price, and adaptability challenge that will put the retail industry’s resilience to the test.
In contrast to past years, Mexico’s premier digital commerce event is held in a complicated geopolitical environment. With Donald Trump’s return to the presidency, tariffs of up to three percent were reinstated for goods coming from nations with which the United States has no trade agreement.
Even if the T-MEC exempts Mexico from these tariffs, the impact has been felt across the supply chain, particularly by businesses that depend on Chinese imports.
At the same time, Mexico has taken a tougher stand against Chinese imports in response to mounting pressure from the US government. Since January 1, goods from that nation are subject to duties that range from 2 to 5%, with some items—like cotton garments or shoes—having a higher rate of up to 24%.
Additionally, a 16% VAT is applied to the product’s entire worth, making the importation procedure much more costly for domestic shops. Maintaining competitive prices has been increasingly difficult in this new environment.
