🇳🇮 Nicaragua vs 🇲🇽 Mexico Tariffs — Import Duty Comparison (2026)

🇳🇮

Nicaragua

Section 122 Rate10%

Section 301N/A

Section 232 (Metals)50%

Trade AgreementCAFTA-DR

Trade Volume$4.5B

Base Effective Rate10%

🇲🇽

Mexico

Section 122 Rate10%

Section 301N/A

Section 232 (Metals)50%

Trade AgreementUSMCA

Trade Volume$779B

Base Effective Rate10%

🇳🇮 Nicaragua Advantages

+Unique export categories: Textiles, Coffee, Beef

🇲🇽 Mexico Advantages

+Higher US trade volume ($779B vs $4.5B)
+Unique export categories: Motor vehicles, Auto parts, Computers

Nicaragua and Mexico are both significant US trading partners, but their tariff profiles differ in important ways that affect import costs.

Both countries face the same base tariff rate of 10% on most goods entering the United States.

These countries have largely distinct export profiles to the United States, serving different market segments.

In terms of trade volume, Nicaragua accounts for approximately $4.5B in bilateral trade with the US, compared to Mexico's $779B.

Both countries are subject to the 10% Section 122 tariff imposed on February 24, 2026, following the Supreme Court's ruling striking down IEEPA tariffs. This rate expires approximately July 24, 2026 unless Congress extends it.

Nicaragua's advantages include: Unique export categories: Textiles, Coffee, Beef. Mexico's advantages include: Higher US trade volume ($779B vs $4.5B); Unique export categories: Motor vehicles, Auto parts, Computers.

With equivalent base tariff rates, the choice between Nicaragua and Mexico depends primarily on product-specific duties, shipping costs, lead times, and supply chain considerations rather than the base tariff rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has lower tariffs — Nicaragua or Mexico?

Both countries face the same base Section 122 tariff of 10%. The difference comes from product-specific duties, Section 301 (China only), and Section 232 (metals).

Should I switch sourcing from Nicaragua to Mexico?

The decision depends on more than tariff rates. Consider total landed cost (shipping, insurance, customs fees), lead times, quality standards, minimum order quantities, and supply chain reliability. With equivalent base rates, focus on non-tariff factors.

Do both Nicaragua and Mexico face the same Section 122 tariff?

Yes, both countries are subject to the 10% Section 122 tariff imposed on February 24, 2026. This flat rate replaced the variable IEEPA tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court. It expires approximately July 24, 2026.

What products overlap between Nicaragua and Mexico exports to the US?

Both countries export various products to the US. Nicaragua has total bilateral trade of ~$4.5B while Mexico has ~$779B.