News|Donald TrumpTrump slaps Mexico with 5 percent tariff over violations of water treatyLeaders on both sides of the border have faced pressure from farmers and ranchers to secure more water for their products.

Update on US-Mexico Tariff and Water Treaty Dispute

On Mon, Dec 12, 2025, the President of the United States announced an increase in tariffs by 5% on imports from Mexico. This decision was attributed to Mexico's alleged failure to adhere to the 1944 Water Treaty, which governs the cross-border water distribution between the two nations.

The tariff increase was communicated via a social media platform, highlighting ongoing tensions between the United States and Mexico. The President emphasized that Mexico owes over 800,000 acre-feet (approximately 986.8 million cubic meters) of water to the U.S. due to non-compliance with the treaty over the past five years. A deadline was set for Mexico to release 200,000 acre-feet (246 million cubic meters) of water by December 31. The tariffs are effective immediately.

The 1944 Water Treaty requires the U.S. to supply 1.5 million acre-feet (1.85 billion cubic meters) of water annually to Mexico. Conversely, Mexico is obligated to allow at least 350,000 acre-feet (431 million cubic meters) of water to flow north to the U.S. Recent drought conditions have impacted Mexico's ability to meet these obligations, with more than 75% of the country experiencing significant drought levels.

Agricultural stakeholders in Texas have expressed concern over the reduced water supply, which they claim has negatively affected their operations. The Texas Governor has committed to advocating for Texan farmers, arguing that Mexico's actions have led to unnecessary agricultural challenges.

The water treaty dispute has been ongoing, with past incidents of Mexican farmers taking measures to retain water resources during shortages. The U.S. considers the current shortfall a cumulative "water debt." Previous actions by the U.S. government included denying Mexico's request for additional water delivery from the Colorado River.

In April 2025, a new agreement was reached to address the water distribution issues, requiring Mexico to release water from international reservoirs. However, disagreements persist regarding Mexico's compliance with the agreement's terms. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has requested federal intervention due to the economic impact of delayed water deliveries.

The Mexican government faces internal pressure to relax water restrictions for local farmers. Recent protests have highlighted dissatisfaction with proposed legislation that would further limit water usage.

Cross-border tensions also extend to other issues, including drug trafficking and migration, with both countries expressing differing priorities and strategies.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.