United States President Donald Trump has enforced sweeping tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, while levying additional duties on Chinese goods.
The move, taken under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), aims to combat the perceived threats posed by illegal immigration and drug smuggling.
Trump has imposed a 25 per cent tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada, along with a 10 per cent tariff on Canadian energy products. Imports from China will be subject to an additional 10 per cent levy.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump justified his decision by saying, "Today, I have implemented a 25 per cent Tariff on Imports from Mexico and Canada (10 per cent on Canadian Energy), and a 10 per cent additional Tariff on China. This was done through the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) because of the major threat of illegal aliens and deadly drugs killing our Citizens, including fentanyl. We need to protect Americans, and it is my duty as President to ensure the safety of all. I made a promise on my Campaign to stop the flood of illegal aliens and drugs from pouring across our Borders, and Americans overwhelmingly voted in favour of it."
The decision to impose the tariffs follows Trump's repeated threats to take action against Canada and Mexico. He had also warned of steep levies on Chinese goods during his election campaign, although his administration delayed immediate enforcement upon his return to the White House, opting to conduct further studies instead.
Also read: Trump's tariffs on Canada, Mexico, China take effect Saturday
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had earlier indicated readiness to respond strongly to any trade restrictions imposed by the US.
Speaking to reporters before a meeting with his advisory council on Canada-US relations, Trudeau said, "If the president does choose to implement any tariffs against Canada, we're ready with a response -- a purposeful, forceful but reasonable, immediate response."
The Globe and Mail had reported that Trudeau’s government was preparing a carefully calculated reaction in anticipation of the US measures.
The tariff announcement is likely to reignite tensions in North America, as concerns about trade disruptions persist.
Trump, however, appears determined to follow through on his protectionist promises, which were a cornerstone of his campaign messaging.
Also read: Meta to pay $25 mn to settle Trump lawsuit after Jan 6 suspension
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