Editor’s briefing for week commencing 22 September 2025
Monday 22 Sept
President Sheinbaum defended her government’s decision to exclude Mexico’s opposition political parties from the commission on electoral reform, stating that they can attend relevant forums or submit proposals by writing instead.
Warnings have emerged that corruption allegations against CIBanco, Intercam, and Vector pose a “contagion risk” to businesses in 10 Mexican states, due to potential spillovers in financial and commercial relationships. Analysts highlight that exposure to these institutions could affect local companies’ liquidity and credit access. Authorities are monitoring the situation to prevent broader instability.
Tuesday 23 Sept
President Sheinbaum called the killings of two Colombian artists an “unfortunate episode” but affirmed they would not impact Mexico’s bilateral relationship with Colombia. She emphasized that authorities are working to clarify the case. The president also reiterated her commitment to strengthening ties with Colombia across various areas.
Thursday 25 Sept
Senators from MORENA accused Mexican billionaire Ricardo Salinas Pliego of engaging in tax evasion while criticizing him for launching attacks against the administration instead of fulfilling his fiscal obligations. The accusations came amid revelations Salinas had to pay a $25m bond to New York authorities to avoid prison. Salinas responded by suggesting a meeting with President Sheinbaum to determine “fairly” what tax his companies owe the government. Sheinbaum rejected his request.
President Sheinbaum teased that the government will re-organize concessions around water in a reform of the National Waters Law, stating access to water is a right of the population and not a commodity.
Mexico’s economy contracted by 1.2 % in July, and forecasts for 2025 growth now range between 0.5 % and 1.5 % from the Finance Ministry. Analysts cite weak industrial activity and external uncertainty as key factors behind the slowdown. The government maintains that growth will improve with stronger public investment later in the year.
China has initiated an investigation into Mexico’s planned higher tariffs and other restrictive trade measures targeting Chinese goods such as cars, textiles, and toys. President Sheinbaum reiterated she seeks good relations with China.
Friday 26 Sept
Adán Augusto, a key ally of former president Senate López Obrador and serves as president of the MORENA Party in the Senate, has been accused by Mexican news outlet Nmás of receiving millions of pesos which he failed to declare to authorities. Augusto is also the subject of accusations made by opposition lawmakers involving alleged links to the Tabascan gang La Barredora, which he denies and which the Attorney General has indicated it will not charge him over.
Mexico’s exports rose 7.4% year-on-year in August, reaching US$ 55.7 billion, driven largely by reciprocal tariffs levied by the US and growth in manufacturing and extractive sectors. In contrast, imports fell by 0.2 % that month, with sharper declines in consumer goods (–5.8 %) and capital goods (–7.4 %).