The Ministry of Economy (Mineco) published a statement stating its position against the announcement of the president of the United States, Donald Trump, who will impose a 10 % tariff to exports from Guatemala and other countries in Central America.
In a press release, the Mineco warns that, for the moment, they consider that The tariffs announced for all countriesThey violate the provisions of the Free Trade Agreement between the United States, Central America and the Dominican Republic (DR-CAFTA).
The Mineco indicates that, although American legislation in force regarding national security could offer a legal basis that justifies the new tariffs, this does not eliminate the conflict with the agreements previously negotiated under that treaty.
He adds that there is space for diplomatic and commercial negotiation with the United States to address the barriers mentioned in the commercial barriers report (Foreign Trade Barriers, FTB), published on April 1, 2025.
Trump communicated on Wednesday, April 2, the application of 10 % tariffs to the products entering the United States from Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador.
However, for the original goods of Nicaragua, governed by Daniel Ortega, a 18 %customs rate will be applied.
These reciprocal tariffs will also apply to other countries in the world and the US president said he will sign an executive order to implement the measure.
In response, the Mineco said that the countries that make up the DR-CAFTA have been subject to a 10 % tariff on the universe of products. Nicaragua was the only exception, with a higher rate.
The statement details that 10 % respond to what the United States calls a universal tariff base.
However, the Guatemalan Ministry stressed that to understand the legal and economic scope of this decision, it is essential to expect the publication of the executive order signed by Trump and the application instrument issued by the Office of the Commerce Representative (USTT).
Commercial balance and diplomatic monitoring
The Mineco also reported that, in 2024, Guatemalan exports to the United States totaled US $ 4,614.0 million, while imports reached US $ 10,545.2 million, which left a favorable trade balance for the United States.
“We are analyzing the executive order and we will be attentive to the application instruments. A close coordination with the Guatemala embassy in Washington and a line of communication with the private sector is maintained,” concludes the statement.