Washington.: In a move that risks escalating global trade tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump signed three executive orders imposing hefty tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and other key trading partners. Citing national security concerns, Trump invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), arguing that an “extraordinary threat” posed by illegal immigration and drug trafficking justifies immediate action.
“We need to protect Americans, and it is my duty as President to ensure the safety of all,” Trump declared on social media. “I made a promise to stop the flood of illegal aliens and drugs across our borders, and Americans overwhelmingly supported it.”
New Tariffs on North American Trade Partners
The executive orders impose a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican exports to the U.S., with a reduced 10% levy on energy imports from Canada—a measure the White House says will remain “until the crisis is alleviated.” The tariffs take effect on Tuesday.
Blaming the Biden administration for what he called “the worst border crisis in U.S. history,” the White House defended the move, stating that over 10 million illegal immigrants attempted to enter the U.S. under Biden, including individuals from China and those on the terror watchlist.
Canada and Mexico Respond
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the tariffs “unjustified” but assured that Canada is “prepared” to respond. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo criticized the decision, stating that “problems are not solved by imposing tariffs, but through dialogue.” She announced that Mexico’s Secretary of Economy will implement a Plan B, including countermeasures to defend Mexican interests.
Trump’s Global Tariff Push
This latest move follows Trump’s recent tariff threats against Colombia, where a 25% tariff was proposed after the country refused to accept deported migrants. The two nations later reached an agreement.
Looking beyond the Western Hemisphere, Trump also vowed to impose tariffs on European Union goods in the near future. His administration further issued a warning to BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), threatening 100% tariffs on their exports if they attempt to replace the U.S. dollar in global trade.
The BRICS bloc has been actively exploring ways to reduce reliance on the U.S. dollar in recent years. While China has yet to respond to Trump’s latest tariff policies, international trade tensions appear set to escalate in the coming weeks.