Trump announces tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China

The President of the United States, Donald Trump, will impose new tariffs of 25% on imports from Mexico and Canada, and 10% on those from China, starting Saturday, February 1, sources from the White House have confirmed.

The measure, which impacts three major trading partners of Washington and is based on accusations that these countries have allowed the distribution of fentanyl in the U.S., could have significant effects on the global economy, affecting thousands of products and key commercial sectors, several experts cited by CNN warned.

The White House spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, emphasized in a press conference that the president is fulfilling his promise to implement these tariffs, stating that the duties are a response to the "illegal fentanyl that has killed tens of millions of Americans."

Leavitt also noted that no further details would be provided about the measure, such as whether it would include exemptions or affect specific products like oil. However, analysts anticipate that inflation in the country will soar.

In light of the imminent imposition of tariffs, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned that his country would give "a strong and immediate response."

In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), Trudeau emphasized that "no one on either side of the border wants to see U.S. tariffs on Canadian products" and stated that his government is working hard to prevent such a measure. However, he stressed that if the imposition of tariffs is confirmed, Canada is already prepared to respond.

In that context, Canadian officials met on Friday with Tom Homan, the White House's border czar, in a last-ditch effort to reach an agreement that would prevent the implementation of tariffs. The main topics of discussion include controlling the trafficking of fentanyl and immigration.

Trade between Canada and the U.S. has been a constant source of tension under Trump’s presidency, who has questioned Canada’s trade surplus with his country. According to official data, Canada exported goods worth $377 billion to the U.S. in 2024, with a surplus of $55 billion, which has irritated the U.S. administration.

This diplomatic challenge could escalate if the tariffs are implemented, and a delegation of provincial leaders from Canada is expected to travel to Washington on February 12 to push for a solution.

For its part, the Mexican government is also closely monitoring the announcements from the new U.S. administration and has not issued any statement regarding them, but it indicated this morning that it would assess each event with a "cool head."

Currently, the focus is primarily on negotiations with Canada; however, analysts anticipate that the repercussions of this measure will impact not only bilateral relations but also global markets.

The new tariffs will impact several imported products, which could raise the prices of essential goods, from vehicles to consumer items, affecting both businesses and consumers.

U.S. companies and consumers were already on alert for the possibility of a drastic increase in prices of all kinds of products, from avocados to gasoline, as well as lumber and vehicle components.

By increasing the cost of imports, the final price of products for consumers ultimately rises.

This could trigger a resurgence of inflation, the major issue that harmed American consumers during Joe Biden's presidency and played a significant role in the Democratic electoral defeat.

Furthermore, the tensions could have a negative impact on the broader trade negotiations between the three countries, which have been crucial for the economies of North America.

Trump has also stated that he is willing to impose tariffs on countries in the European Union, which is the country's main trading partner.

Frequently Asked Questions about Trump's New Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China