Free Trial

AMERICAS OIL PRODUCTS: US Tariffs Could Shift Mexican HSFO to Panama: Argus

AMERICAS OIL PRODUCTS

Proposed US tariffs on Mexican goods could increase costs for Mexican HSFO in the US, potentially redirecting flows to Panama, Argus said.

  • President Trump plans to impose 25% tariffs on Mexican imports, though US oil companies are seeking exemptions for oil.
  • In Jan-Oct of 2024, Mexico's residual fuel oil exports hit a record 218,059 b/d, with the US importing 145,830 b/d, mostly to the USGC.
  • If tariffs are implemented, US companies might lower bids to offset costs, prompting Mexican exporters to seek buyers in Panama, Europe, and Singapore.
  • Panama, reliant on imports for its HSFO needs, could replace some USGC imports with Mexican barrels if prices are favourable.
  • Panama's HSFO demand averaged 25,466 b/d in early 2024, with imports mainly from Mexico, the US Gulf coast, and Peru.
  • Additionally, Trump has threatened actions to control the Panama Canal, citing unfair treatment of US ships, a claim denied by Panama's president.
147 words

To read the full story

Close

Why MNI

MNI is the leading provider

of intelligence and analysis on the Global Fixed Income, Foreign Exchange and Energy markets. We use an innovative combination of real-time analysis, deep fundamental research and journalism to provide unique and actionable insights for traders and investors. Our "All signal, no noise" approach drives an intelligence service that is succinct and timely, which is highly regarded by our time constrained client base.

Our Head Office is in London with offices in Chicago, Washington and Beijing, as well as an on the ground presence in other major financial centres across the world.

Proposed US tariffs on Mexican goods could increase costs for Mexican HSFO in the US, potentially redirecting flows to Panama, Argus said.

  • President Trump plans to impose 25% tariffs on Mexican imports, though US oil companies are seeking exemptions for oil.
  • In Jan-Oct of 2024, Mexico's residual fuel oil exports hit a record 218,059 b/d, with the US importing 145,830 b/d, mostly to the USGC.
  • If tariffs are implemented, US companies might lower bids to offset costs, prompting Mexican exporters to seek buyers in Panama, Europe, and Singapore.
  • Panama, reliant on imports for its HSFO needs, could replace some USGC imports with Mexican barrels if prices are favourable.
  • Panama's HSFO demand averaged 25,466 b/d in early 2024, with imports mainly from Mexico, the US Gulf coast, and Peru.
  • Additionally, Trump has threatened actions to control the Panama Canal, citing unfair treatment of US ships, a claim denied by Panama's president.