Mexico Auto Exports Slip in February Despite Strong US Demand

Key Details Mexico's automotive sector produced 311,457 light vehicles in February, marking a 1.8% decline year over year. Exports fell 4.4% to 247,945 units during the same month, according to Mexico's National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI). Year-to-Date Performance Through the first two months of 2026, Mexico produced 625,774 vehicles, down just 0.6% compared with the same period in 2025. Notably, exports totaled 485,426 units, representing a 1.4% increase year over year despite monthly softness. Why It Matters Mexico remains a critical cross-border freight engine for North American trucking. Major automakers including GM, Stellantis, Ford, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo and BMW operate large assembly plants across the country, particularly in Coahuila, Nuevo Leon, Guanajuato, Puebla and San Luis Potosi. US Market Dominance From January through February, 75.7% of all Mexican vehicle exports were shipped to the U.S., underscoring deep integration under the USMCA trade framework. Canada ranked second with 12.1% of exports. This heavy reliance on American demand means production decisions in Mexico are closely tied to U.S. automotive market conditions, directly impacting cross-border truck freight volumes.