🇻🇳 Vietnam vs 🇲🇽 Mexico Tariffs — Import Duty Comparison (2026)

🇻🇳

Vietnam

Section 122 Rate10%

Section 301N/A

Section 232 (Metals)50%

Trade AgreementNone

Trade Volume$127B

Base Effective Rate10%

🇲🇽

Mexico

Section 122 Rate10%

Section 301N/A

Section 232 (Metals)50%

Trade AgreementUSMCA

Trade Volume$779B

Base Effective Rate10%

Product Overlap

Both countries export these product categories to the US:

Auto parts

🇻🇳 Vietnam Advantages

+Unique export categories: Electronics, Textiles, Footwear

🇲🇽 Mexico Advantages

+Trade agreement: USMCA (duty-free on qualifying goods)
+Higher US trade volume ($779B vs $127B)
+Unique export categories: Motor vehicles, Computers, Electrical machinery

Comparing import tariffs between Vietnam and Mexico reveals key differences that can significantly impact landed costs for US importers.

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

Both countries export Auto parts to the United States, creating direct competition in these sectors.

In terms of trade volume, Vietnam accounts for approximately $127B 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.

Vietnam's advantages include: Unique export categories: Electronics, Textiles, Footwear. Mexico's advantages include: Trade agreement: USMCA (duty-free on qualifying goods); Higher US trade volume ($779B vs $127B); Unique export categories: Motor vehicles, Computers, Electrical machinery.

With equivalent base tariff rates, the choice between Vietnam 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 — Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam and Mexico exports to the US?

Both countries export Auto parts to the US. Vietnam has total bilateral trade of ~$127B while Mexico has ~$779B.