Trump Imposes Tariffs on Canada and Mexico: Fighting Drugs or Trade War?
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the imposition of tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, citing efforts to combat drug trafficking and protect national security.
Photo: Trump White House Archived, PDM 1.0
President Donald Trump has announced the imposition of tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, citing a national security threat posed by drug trafficking. The information was published on the White House website.
The decision was made under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
Trump stated that both countries have failed to curb Mexican cartels responsible for the influx of fentanyl and other drugs into the U.S.
As a result, he claims, a crisis has emerged that threatens American health. Official data indicates that 97% of seized fentanyl enters the country through the southern border.
Additionally, there has been a rise in drug labs in Canada, some of which produce up to 30 kg of fentanyl per week. Smuggling across the northern border has also increased, with the volume of seized substances in the first months of this year nearly matching 2022 levels.
Tariffs, which could reach up to 25% on all goods from Canada and Mexico, will remain in effect until the countries take action against drug trafficking.
Critics accuse Trump of using this decision as part of his election strategy to draw attention to immigration and economic policies.
This is not the first time Trump has used trade measures to pressure neighboring countries. In 2019, the threat of tariffs helped secure Mexico’s increased control over migration.
However, this time experts warn of potential retaliatory sanctions that could impact U.S. manufacturers and consumers.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that in response to possible tariff hikes by the U.S., Ottawa will impose duties on American goods worth $155 billion.
The decision was made following the Trump administration's introduction of 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico.
In response, Canada is immediately imposing initial restrictions amounting to $30 billion, with the remaining $125 billion to be subject to tariffs within three weeks.
Trudeau noted that the U.S. is ignoring Ottawa’s efforts to combat fentanyl, making their sanctions unjustified.
Earlier reports stated that U.S. President Donald Trump imposed 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, which could trigger trade disputes with the EU, Canada, and Mexico, leading to retaliatory measures and economic consequences.
It was also reported that the U.S. threatened Mexico with military action, demanding tougher action against cartels, and in response, Mexico extradited 29 drug lords in an attempt to ease tensions.