• U.S. President Donald Trump announced 25 percent tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods, effective March 4.
• The tariffs were initially set for early last month but were delayed due to attempts by Canadian and Mexican leaders to address American concerns.
• Trump’s tariffs target various goods: Avocados, beer and vehicles from Mexico, as well as crude oil, lumber and car parts from Canada.
• Canada and Mexico responded with retaliatory measures, including tariffs on American goods and potential export cessations.
• The trade war between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico highlights growing tensions and economic risks between the countries.

There’s no more room for Mexico and Canada to avoid the 25 percent tariffs to be imposed on their products coming into the U.S., according to U.S. President Donald Trump.

The chief executive announced this development on March 3, ahead of the tariffs that took effect the following day. Originally set early last month, the tariffs were pushed back following last-minute efforts by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum to address American concerns over border security and drug trafficking.

“No room left for Mexico or Canada, no,” Trump remarked during a press briefing that day. “The tariffs, you know, they’re all set. They go into effect tomorrow.”

Trump emphasized that the tariffs are part of his broader strategy to repatriate manufacturing jobs to the United States. They also mark a significant escalation in trade tensions with two of Washington’s closest neighbors. The tariffs will target a range of goods – including avocados, beer and vehicles from Mexico, as well as crude oil, lumber and car parts from Canada.

“Just so you understand, vast amounts of fentanyl have poured into our country from Mexico,” Trump continued, also pointing his fingers at Ottawa for its role in the crisis. But America’s northern and southern neighbors aren’t the only targets of Trump’s tariffs, as he has also set his sights on China.

According to the National Pulse, Trump plans to increase tariffs on Beijing’s exports by an additional 10 percent. This comes off a separate 10 percent duty imposed on Chinese imports last month – for a total of 20 percent.

Trade war heats up with Canada and Mexico’s responses

Both Ottawa and Mexico City did not take too kindly to the tariffs, swiftly responding with retaliatory measures. Canada announced retaliatory tariffs on more than $100 billion worth of American goods, while Mexico said it will unveil its own countermeasures on March 9.

Trudeau didn’t mince words during a fiery press conference, denouncing the tariffs on Canadian goods as “a very dumb thing to do” and accusing Trump of kowtowing to Russia. The Canadian leader also tapped into growing anti-American sentiment among Canadians, noting that many are choosing to boycott U.S. vacations and products.

“The U.S. launched a trade war against Canada, their closest partner and ally, their closest friend. At the same time, they are talking about working positively with Russia – appeasing Vladimir Putin, a lying, murderous dictator,” Trudeau jibed. “Make that make sense.”

Ottawa’s retaliation includes a 25 percent export tax on electricity sold to the U.S., which powers 1.5 million American homes, and the potential cessation of nickel and rare mineral exports. Additionally, Canadian provinces have begun removing American liquor brands from government store shelves, a move that could cost U.S. producers hundreds of millions of dollars annually. (Related: Trudeau escalates trade war with U.S., imposes 25% tariffs on $155 billion in American goods.)

Meanwhile, Sheinbaum delayed the announcement of Mexico’s retaliatory tariffs until March 9. The Mexican leader expressed hope for de-escalation, noting that she and Trump had agreed to a call before the March 9 announcement.

“There is no motive or reason, nor justification that supports this decision that will affect our people and our nations,” Sheinbaum said. “It’s inconceivable that they don’t think about the damage this is going to cause to U.S. citizens and businesses. No one wins with this decision.”

She also pushed back against Trump’s claims that Mexico City hasn’t done enough to combat drug cartels. Such claims, according to Sheinbaum, are “offensive, defamatory and without support.” She highlighted her administration’s efforts to seize fentanyl, dismantle meth labs and extradite cartel personalities to the United States.

As the trade war intensifies, the economic and political stakes continue to rise. While Trump remains steadfast in his approach, the retaliatory measures from Canada and Mexico underscore the growing rift between the U.S. and its neighbors in the north and south.

Watch Tom Philipson and Steve Moore explaining that President Donald Trump uses tariffs effectively in this clip.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

In 24 hours, Trump got more from Mexico & Canada on borders and fentanyl than any President in the last 24 years.

Trump announces 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum to protect U.S. industries.

Trump’s reciprocal tariffs aim to level trade playing field for U.S. workers.

Sources include:

TheNationalPulse.com

APNews.com 1

APNews.com 2

Brighteon.com