Navigating Tariffs and Manufacturing in Mexico: A Conversation with Humberto Guillen of Construlita

At LEDucation 2025, Randy Reid sat down with Humberto Guillen from Construlita, a Mexican manufacturer, to discuss the impact of tariffs and the company’s position on the current trade landscape.

The Current State of Tariffs

Randy kicked off the conversation by addressing the looming tariff issues that have been dominating discussions. Humberto acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding tariffs but remained optimistic about Mexico’s role in the global manufacturing landscape.

“Mexico has been a great country for OEM production in recent years due to its versatility, accessibility, and time zone advantages,” Humberto explained.

He highlighted that while the tariff situation remains unclear, Mexico’s proximity to the U.S. provides a competitive advantage. “From the border to New York, it takes only a few days, which is far quicker than shipping from China.”

Construlita’s Manufacturing Capabilities

Construlita is known for its wide range of products, including downlights, specialized MRI lighting for hospitals, and anti-explosive luminaires for hazardous locations. They serve both OEMs and distributors, providing private-label products for U.S. customers.

Humberto emphasized that one of the company’s biggest advantages is the ability to provide a full suite of solutions without requiring customers to carry stock or handle manufacturing themselves.

Tariffs and Market Impact

When discussing the potential impact of a 25% tariff, Humberto remained hopeful but realistic. “Even with the tariff, our logistics and cost structure remain competitive due to our stable supply chain,” he said. He believes that while a permanent tariff would require price adjustments, Construlita would still be able to offer attractive opportunities for U.S. customers.

While some sectors might be exempted from tariffs, Humberto is skeptical about lighting being one of them, citing that tariffs may affect specific product categories but not the broader tech space.

Challenges in the Mexican Market

Despite the challenges posed by tariffs, Construlita has maintained strong relationships with suppliers and customers, thanks in part to their diversified approach. While some components are sourced from China, the company’s open trade policies with China continue to benefit them. Humberto mentioned that Chinese manufacturers are increasingly looking to enter Mexican territory, which could potentially provide new opportunities.

Manufacturing Flexibility and Innovation

Construlita is involved in both the assembly of drivers and the sourcing of them. They also work with local Mexican brands to provide specialized controls and automation solutions, further diversifying their product offerings.

Conclusion

Humberto wrapped up the discussion by acknowledging the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in Construlita’s position in the market. With its stable supply chain, proximity to the U.S., and diversified manufacturing capabilities, Construlita is well-equipped to handle the evolving landscape of tariffs and international trade.