U.S. Imposes Tariffs on Countries Posing Illegal Immigration and Drug Threats
Due to the national emergency presented to the U.S. by illegal immigration and drug trafficking, a 25% tariff was imposed on imports coming from Canada and Mexico. A 10% tariff was also imposed on China.
Announced on February 1, the White House explained its reasoning for the tariffs:
“Tariffs are a powerful, proven source of leverage for protecting the national interest. President Trump is using the tools at hand and taking decisive action that puts Americans’ safety and our national security first.”
Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau — who will resign from office once the Liberal Party appoints his successor — announced a reciprocation of the tariff measures against the U.S.
According to CNBC, Canada plans to impose tariffs immediately on $155 billion worth of American goods. In a press conference, Trudeau stated:
“Like the American tariffs, our response will also be far-reaching and include everyday items such as American beer, wine and bourbon, fruits and fruit juices, including orange juice, along with vegetables, perfume, clothing and shoes.”
Trudeau continued:
“It’ll include major consumer products like household appliances, furniture and sports equipment and materials like lumber and plastics, along with much, much more… if President Trump wants to usher in a new ‘golden age’ for the United States, the better path is to partner with Canada, not to punish us.”
CNBC further reports that Mexico was also retaliatory in its initial response to the tariffs. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum declared a “plan b…which includes tariff and non-tariff measures in defense of Mexico’s interests.”
According to Sheinbaum, the White House slandered the Mexican government by claiming it is allied with criminal organizations.
However, according to the Associated Press, on Monday both the U.S. and Mexico have halted their mutual tariff measures. After negotiations with President Sheinbaum, U.S. tariffs on Mexico have been paused for a month. This comes as result of a deal made between both countries concerning border security. Sheinbaum announced on X that 10,000 members of the National Guard will be sent to the Norther border to stop the flow of drug and weapon trafficking.
CBS News reports that China is “strongly dissatisfied” with the 10% tariffs. The country will file a lawsuit with the World Trade Organization and take “corresponding countermeasures” against the U.S. tariffs.
