Trump Imposes Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China to Combat Fentanyl Crisis
U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order imposing new tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China as part of efforts to combat the fentanyl crisis and address trade imbalances.
Washington, D.C. – February 3 (ANI): U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order imposing new tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China as part of efforts to combat the fentanyl crisis and address trade imbalances.
According to the White House, the tariffs include:
???? 25% on goods from Mexico
???? 25% on Canadian goods, except for energy resources, which face a 10% tariff
???? 10% on imports from China
The tariffs on Canada will take effect Tuesday, while duties on Mexico and China are effective immediately.
Retaliation Clause & Possible Further Measures
The executive order includes a retaliation clause, allowing the U.S. to introduce further measures if the affected countries respond with counter-tariffs.
The move directly impacts America’s largest trading partners. In 2023, the U.S. exported $808 billion worth of goods and services to Canada and Mexico, while importing $1.01 trillion from them. The U.S. trade deficit stands at $40 billion with Canada and $162 billion with Mexico.
Trump’s Justification: Holding Countries Accountable for Fentanyl Crisis
The White House linked the tariffs to the fentanyl epidemic, accusing Canada, Mexico, and China of failing to stop the flow of illegal drugs into the U.S.
"Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for Americans aged 18 to 45. Today's tariffs are necessary to hold China, Mexico, and Canada accountable for their promises to halt the flood of poisonous drugs into the United States," the White House stated.
Concerns from Fuel Industry & Business Groups
The American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers Association (AFPM), representing major energy companies like Chevron, ExxonMobil, and Marathon Petroleum, expressed concerns over tariffs on Canadian and Mexican energy products.
"We hope for a quick resolution so that crude oil, refined products, and petrochemicals are removed from the tariff schedule before consumers feel the impact," AFPM stated.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce strongly opposed the decision, calling it "profoundly disturbing", warning that it will have "immediate and direct consequences" on both Canadian and American livelihoods.
"These measures will drastically increase the cost of everything for everyone," the Chamber stated.
The Mexican government has not yet announced its response, but analysts expect countermeasures from all three countries.
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