U.S. President Donald Trump announced that tariffs against Canada and Mexico are set to take effect on March 4, emphasizing a correlation with fentanyl and migration issues. A 25% tariff will be imposed, along with further tariffs on April 2. Despite Trump’s claims, data shows a decrease in fentanyl seizures from Canada. Actions taken by Canada may influence tariff implementation.
On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that the previously announced tariffs on Canada and Mexico will proceed as scheduled next week. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump stated, “The proposed TARIFFS scheduled to go into effect on MARCH FOURTH will, indeed, go into effect, as scheduled,” and added that China will face an additional 10% tariff on that date.
The President reiterated his assertion that these tariffs are tied to the issues of fentanyl trafficking and migration from both countries. However, Canadian federal statistics indicate that less than one percent of the fentanyl in the United States originates from Canada. Furthermore, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol records show a significant decrease in fentanyl seizures at the Canada-U.S. border, marking the lowest levels since 2022.
Trump’s announcement references two separate sets of tariffs; the initial set includes a 25% tariff on Canada and Mexico related to fentanyl, slated for implementation on March 4. The second set consists of reciprocal tariffs applicable to all trading partners who impose tariffs or other trade restrictions against the U.S., which Trump emphasized will take effect on April 2.
Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick noted that Canada and Mexico still have a window to negotiate and potentially avert the tariffs scheduled for March 4. Trump has suggested a 25% broad-based tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico, pivotal trade partners for the United States. Initially set to commence on February 4, these tariffs were delayed for one month following discussions with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who pledged actions against drug trafficking and migration.
Since the pause, Canada has taken steps to combat fentanyl smuggling by designating a fentanyl czar, labeling cartels as terrorist entities, and enhancing border patrol measures. Secretary Lutnick remarked, “At the end of that 30 days, they have to prove to the president that they’ve satisfied him to that regard. If they have, he’ll give them a pause or he won’t.”
In conclusion, President Trump’s impending tariffs on Canada and Mexico are confirmed to commence on March 4, with further measures set for April 2. Despite claims concerning fentanyl and migration, data challenges the necessity of these tariffs based on the current realities of fentanyl trafficking from Canada. Future negotiations may still influence the outcome based on actions taken by both countries during the grace period.
Original Source: globalnews.ca
