MEXICO CITY—Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed optimism on Tuesday regarding the resolution of a bilateral water-sharing conflict with the United States, despite recent sanctions threats from former President Donald Trump. Speaking at a press conference, Sheinbaum emphasized her confidence in reaching a mutually beneficial agreement, drawing parallels to previous successful negotiations between the two nations.
The dispute centers on the 1944 water treaty, which mandates cross-border water exchanges between the Colorado River and the Rio Grande. Trump alleged that Mexico has failed to deliver approximately 800,000 acre-feet of water owed to the U.S., demanding immediate repayment of a quarter of this volume by year-end under the threat of imposing a new 5% tariff.
Mexican officials are scheduled to meet with U.S. counterparts to address the issue. While acknowledging delays in water deliveries over the past five years, Mexico attributes the shortfall to severe drought conditions in 2022 and 2023. Sheinbaum highlighted logistical constraints, noting that existing pumping infrastructure cannot physically accommodate the rapid water transfer demanded by Trump.
The tension arises alongside Trump’s announcement of a $12 billion aid package for U.S. farmers affected by his trade policies. This marks the second time Trump has threatened economic repercussions over water issues, following a similar incident in April that prompted immediate Mexican action.
Currently, Mexican exports face a 25% tariff unless exempted under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), a trade deal negotiated during Trump’s first term and slated for renegotiation in 2026.