U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the imposition of a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, as well as a 10% tariff on goods from China. The move comes as Trump cites concerns over illegal immigration and the smuggling of drugs, including fentanyl.
Trump stated that the tariffs were enacted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to safeguard American citizens and fulfill a campaign promise. The president emphasized that these tariffs were essential for addressing the threats posed by illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
“Today, I have implemented a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada (with a 10% tariff on Canadian energy), and a 10% additional tariff on China. This action is taken because of the severe threat of illegal aliens and deadly drugs, including fentanyl, killing our citizens,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “We need to protect Americans, and as President, it is my duty to ensure their safety. I promised to stop the flood of illegal aliens and drugs, and Americans overwhelmingly voted for this agenda.”
Trump had previously warned that tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico would be imposed on February 1, and during his campaign, he had threatened tariffs of up to 60% on Chinese goods. However, he initially held off on such action, opting to have his administration study the issue.
In response, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that Canada would be ready with a “forceful but reasonable” response to any U.S. tariffs. “If the president does choose to implement tariffs against Canada, we’re ready with a purposeful, forceful but reasonable immediate response,” Trudeau stated before meeting with his advisory council on Canada-U.S. relations, as reported by The Globe and Mail.
