Mexico is bracing for potential disruptions in its fuel supply following U.S. President Donald Trump’s support for a proposal to limit diesel exports. This U.S. policy consideration aims to tackle soaring fuel prices domestically but could significantly impact Mexico, which heavily depends on U.S. diesel imports.
As of June 2026, Mexico was importing approximately 288,000 barrels of U.S. diesel per day, fulfilling over 40% of its diesel demand. The prospect of reduced U.S. diesel supplies has prompted Mexican authorities to consider bolstering their domestic refining capabilities and diversifying import sources to mitigate dependency on the United States.
The U.S. administration is currently exploring whether a full or partial restriction on diesel exports is feasible. However, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has cautioned that an extensive export ban might lead to complications with other fuel types and could potentially drive prices higher.
To counter the possible shortfall, Mexico is relying on its domestic refining network and has continued implementing fuel subsidies and price-support measures. The Mexican government is also evaluating strategies to enhance its internal production and storage capacities.
Should U.S. diesel supplies decrease, Mexico could face increased transportation and logistics costs, underscoring the urgency for the country to diversify its energy import strategies. The situation highlights a critical need for Mexico to strengthen its energy independence to safeguard against external supply shocks.