The US is to pause its plan to issue tariffs on all imports from Mexico after talks between the country’s presidents today (3 February).

President Trump and his Mexican counterpart Claudia Sheinbaum confirmed an agreement had been reached that halts the introduction of the planned 25% tariff, which had been due to be introduced tomorrow.

In a statement on Truth Social, Trump said Sheinbaum had agreed to install 10,000 soldiers on the border between the two countries.

“These soldiers will be specifically designated to stop the flow of fentanyl and illegal migrants into our country,” Trump’s post read.

In a statement on X, Sheinbaum confirmed she would use 10,000 members of Mexico’s National Guard “to prevent drug trafficking from Mexico to the United States, particularly fentanyl”.

She added: “The United States is committed to working to prevent the trafficking of high-powered weapons to Mexico. Our teams will begin working today on two fronts: security and trade.”

Trump’s post on Truth Social made no mention of an agreement on weapons.

He confirmed the countries would hold talks during the one-month pause and added: “I look forward to participating in those negotiations, with President Sheinbaum, as we attempt to achieve a ‘deal’ between our two countries.”

The US has also lined up a 25% tariff on all imports from Canada, a move that, like the planned measure for shipments from Mexico, had been criticised by business groups, including trade associations in the food and drinks industry.

Like Mexico, Canada had lined up a series of retaliatory measures.

In a separate statement on Truth Social, posted before announcing the agreement with Sheinbaum, Trump said he had spoken to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today. “Will be speaking to him again at 3:00pm,” Trump added.

The Distilled Spirits Council of the US said it welcomed the suspension of the planned tariffs on Mexico.

“We are hopeful that the two countries will continue discussions and come to a resolution so that the tariffs can be averted entirely,” Chris Swonger, the organisation’s president and CEO, told Just Drinks. “Tequila and mezcal are extremely popular among US consumers and help to support sales and jobs at restaurants and bars across our country.”

Trump has also announced an additional 10% tariff on imports from China, which has met with “strong opposition” from Beijing.

According to the South China Morning Post, China said it would file a claim at the WTO and take corresponding measures to safeguard its interests.