President Trump announced that on March 4, a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada will be implemented alongside an additional 10% tariff on imported Chinese goods. The decision is linked to ongoing drug trafficking issues, with discussions ongoing to address concerns from affected countries. The White House has communicated that further tariff policies may evolve from an upcoming study due by April 1.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced that proposed tariffs of 25% on goods imported from Mexico and Canada will take effect on March 4. He asserted that these tariffs are necessary due to the continued high levels of drug trafficking from these countries, particularly highlighting the opioid fentanyl as a significant concern. Additionally, Trump indicated that an extra 10% tariff on Chinese goods would also be implemented on the same date, supplementing the existing 10% tariff established earlier this month.
During a post on his Truth Social media platform, Trump emphasized the urgency of addressing the drug crisis, declaring, “We cannot allow this scourge to continue to harm the USA, and therefore, until it stops, or is seriously limited, the proposed TARIFFS scheduled to go into effect on MARCH FOURTH will, indeed, go into effect, as scheduled.” The announcement resolved previous uncertainties regarding the implementation timeline of the tariffs amid concerns related to fentanyl and security at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Trump’s comments during a cabinet meeting had initially suggested a possible delay in the tariffs until April 4, amidst discussions concerning reciprocal tariffs with other countries. White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett noted that the President would review tariff policies for all nations following a study due by April 1, further indicating that specific assessments could lead to future revisions.
In an effort to avert the implementation of these tariffs, Mexican Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard is scheduled to meet on consecutive days with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Canadian officials, including Public Safety Minister David McGuinty, expressed confidence that their recent border security enhancements and anti-drug efforts would address U.S. concerns adequately.
Meanwhile, in a letter addressed to U.S. Trade Representative Jaimson Greer, China urged for dialogues on economic and trade issues to continue through mutual consultation, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the two nations.
President Trump’s confirmation of tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods, coupled with new measures against China, marks a significant escalation in U.S. trade policy based on drug trafficking concerns. Continuous negotiations with Mexico and Canada, alongside Trump’s economic adviser’s clarifications on subsequent studies, highlight the dynamic and evolving nature of international trade relations. As discussions progress, the outcome may notably influence future tariff implementations and diplomatic relations.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
