The United States is set to impose 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and China beginning this Saturday, with a 10% tariff specifically targeting Chinese products.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed on Friday that the move is in response to the three countries allegedly allowing illegal drugs to enter the U.S.
In reaction, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warned of a “forceful and immediate response” if the U.S. goes through with the tariffs.
Trudeau stated on X, “No one – on either side of the border – wants to see American tariffs on Canadian goods.
“I met with our Canada-U.S. Council today. We’re working hard to prevent these tariffs, but if the United States moves ahead, Canada’s ready with a forceful and immediate response,” Trudeau added.
The tariffs were originally intended to be introduced on the first day of President Trump’s term, but were postponed to a February 1 deadline. However, last-minute negotiations could still prevent the punitive measures from taking effect.
President Trump had campaigned on implementing high tariffs on foreign goods during his presidential run, a policy he continued during his first term.
(dpa/NAN)
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