Mexico's new tariffs on low-cost imports into the country, which are widely seen to impact Asian players, can create a "nightmare scenario" for businesses that are currently importing into Mexico.

Flexport said recent developments in Mexico regarding the de minimis exemption have created significant challenges for many businesses.

In December, Mexico implemented a 19% tax on imports through courier services from countries that lack a free-trade agreement, including China.

Meanwhile, under a regional trade agreement with Mexico, imports from the U.S. and Canada are exempt from duties on purchases valued at under US$50. However, goods valued between US$50 and US$117 from the U.S. and Canada will incur a 17% duty.

Flexport said that the presidential decree of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum — issuing tariff increases and restrictions on temporary imports of textiles effective December 20th — has left many companies "scrambling."

"These disruptions can create a nightmare scenario for businesses who are currently importing into Mexico. Many customers are calling Flexport asking for urgent help after receiving force majeure notices from their current providers who can no longer import into Mexico," it said.

Mexico's latest tariff move comes amid increasingly tense trade relations with its neighbour countries after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, looks to follow through on a campaign promise to impose stiff tariffs, including on Mexico and Canada.

The incoming president has claimed that Mexico serves as a "backdoor" for Chinese goods, a statement that the country has refuted. He stated that implementing tariffs would, among other things, help decrease drug smuggling and illegal immigration into the U.S.

Mexico imposed a 15% tariff on raw textile imports and a 35% tariff on finished fabric products, such as clothing.