Trump enters trade war with Mexico and Canada with tariffs on both sides

Donald Trump confirmed the imposition of tariffs on Mexico, China and Canada. After months of proposing the measures on the campaign trail, the Republican president announced that they will go into effect on Tuesday, February 4, with the aim of "protecting Americans." Responses were not long in coming from Justin Trudeau and Claudia Sheinbaum.

Specifically, the White House will impose 25% on imports from Mexico and Canada, as well as 10% on products from China. Canadian energy imports will be subject to a 10% tariff. Together, the three countries account for more than one-third of the products entering the United States.

"Today, I have implemented a 25% Tariff on Imports from Mexico and Canada (10% on Canadian Energy), and a 10% additional Tariff on China. This was done through the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) because of the major threat of illegal aliens and deadly drugs killing our Citizens, including fentanyl," Trump said on his Truth Social account.

"We need to protect Americans, and it is my duty as President to ensure the safety of all. I made a promise on my Campaign to stop the flood of illegal aliens and drugs from pouring across our Borders, and Americans overwhelmingly voted in favor of it," the president added.

Harrison Fields, White House spokesman, also shared the imposition of the tariffs. "Tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China are SIGNED. This bold move holds these countries accountable for stopping illegal immigration and the flow of dangerous drugs like fentanyl," he posted on his X account.

Trump's move has a clause stipulating that the U.S. could raise tariffs further if some of the countries in question retaliate.

Mexico announces retaliation against tariffs

Mexico's president, Claudia Sheinbaum, initially responded by saying Mexico would keep a “cool head” and called for “no haste.” However, after a harsh statement from the White House against Mexico, she announced the implementation of retaliation against the United States. 

“It is not with the imposition of tariffs that problems are solved, but by talking and dialoguing as we did in these last weeks with your State Department to address the phenomenon of migration; in our case, with respect for human rights,” the president wrote on her X account.

“I instruct the Secretary of Economy to implement the Plan B we have been working on, which includes tariff and non-tariff measures in defense of Mexico's interests. Nothing by force; everything by reason and law,” she added.

Trudeau: “We will stand firm for Canada”

Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, spoke Saturday night and announced concrete measures to respond to the White House initiative. Specifically, he spoke of a 25% tariff on hundreds of U.S. goods. “Instead of keeping us united, the actions taken today by the White House drive us apart,” he asserted.

“Our response will be far-reaching and include everyday items, like beer, wine and bourbon, fruits, vegetables, perfume, clothing and shoes. Appliances, furniture, sports equipment, materials... and much, much more,” the prime minister added, stating that they will go into effect on Tuesday.