U.S. President Donald Trump on November 12, 2026, threatened to double existing tariffs on Mexican goods unless Mexico prevents a migrant caravan of approximately 1,500 people from reaching the U.S. border. The group, primarily from Central America, began marching north from Tapachula, Mexico, on November 10, citing expectations that Democratic gains in the recent U.S. midterm elections could ease border policies. Trump stated in a Truth Social post that the caravan would not be allowed to enter the United States and that Mexico, Texas officials, U.S. Border Patrol, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) had been informed of his position.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum acknowledged the movement of migrants but denied that any caravans had reached the U.S. border since January 2025. Sheinbaum, speaking at a daily press briefing, reported that a 600-person caravan in Chiapas had largely dispersed after authorities informed participants of the challenges of entering the U.S. She also noted ongoing discussions with a separate group of several hundred Honduran migrants, encouraging their return to their country of origin. Sheinbaum emphasized that no acts of repression would be used against migrants.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin reiterated the administration’s stance, stating in a social media post that all available assets would be deployed to secure the border and that the caravan would not be permitted to enter illegally. Mullin’s statement followed Trump’s tariff threat, which framed the caravan as part of an "illegal march" through Mexico.
Migrant Perspectives and Travel Plans
Participants in the caravan, including Cesar Sandoval, a 47-year-old Nicaraguan deported from the U.S. months earlier, expressed hope that Democratic control of Congress could provide new pathways for entry. Sandoval stated that some believed the Biden administration—or a future Democratic-led government—might offer relief. The caravan initially aimed to reach Mexico City, seeking federal assistance and protection from detention while traveling north.
Mexico’s Response and Policy Context
Sheinbaum confirmed that Mexican authorities in Chiapas had turned back migrants attempting to join the caravan this week. She also referenced ongoing trade negotiations with the U.S., including discussions under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which began reviewing tariffs in July 2026. Mexico has sought reductions in 10% tariffs on non-USMCA-covered goods, a 25% duty on medium- and heavy-duty trucks, a 50% tariff on steel and aluminum, and a 17% countervailing duty on Mexican tomatoes.
Border Security and Legal Pathways
The Trump administration has maintained a policy of no leniency for migrants attempting to cross the border illegally, including those traveling in caravans. U.S. officials have repeatedly warned that such groups would be denied entry. The caravan’s movement coincides with broader debates over U.S.-Mexico relations, trade policy, and immigration enforcement, as both countries navigate the implications of recent political shifts in Washington and Mexico City.