Trump confirmed that tariffs on Canada and Mexico will take effect on March 4, alongside an additional 10% tariff on China. The tariffs aim to address issues related to fentanyl and migration. The countries have the chance to avoid these tariffs by demonstrating satisfactory progress by the end of a designated 30-day evaluation period.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico will proceed as planned, with implementation scheduled for March 4. He announced via his social media, Truth Social, that these tariffs are part of measures to combat the flow of fentanyl and migration across the U.S. border. Additionally, an extra 10% tariff on China is also set for that date.
Trump’s announcement highlights two specific tariff sets. The first involves a 25% fentanyl-related tariff on Canada and Mexico, effective March 4. The second involves reciprocal tariffs affecting all U.S. trading partners, also set to commence on April 2. He emphasized that the April tariffs “will remain in full force and effect.”
During a cabinet meeting, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick noted that Canada and Mexico have an opportunity to avoid the March 4 tariffs. This follows a previous agreement where Trump temporarily paused these tariffs after discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum regarding drug smuggling and migration issues.
The actions Canada is preparing in response to these tariffs include appointing a fentanyl czar, designating cartels as terrorist organizations, and increasing border patrols to regulate migrant influx. It was mentioned that after the 30-day period, these countries must demonstrate satisfactory progress to Trump to avoid the tariffs.
In summary, Trump is set to impose significant tariffs on Canada and Mexico effective March 4, primarily aimed at addressing fentanyl trafficking and migration. Although there is a potential to avoid these tariffs, action plans from Canada and Mexico will need to satisfy U.S. expectations in a limited timeframe. The overall trade dynamics continue to reflect escalating tensions amidst ongoing negotiations.
Original Source: globalnews.ca
