Trump's Tariff Threats Leave Canada, Mexico, and China in Limbo
US President Donald Trump has once again kept Canada, Mexico, and China on high alert as the deadline for his threatened tariffs nears. He spent Saturday largely undisturbed at his Florida properties, preoccupied with drafting social media messages while the clock ticked down on the potential tariffs. Although Trump had announced plans for 25% tariffs on his TMEC (Mexico-Canada-U.S. Agreement) partners and 10% tariffs against China, he did not formally sign these measures over the weekend.
Despite his public inaction, reports have emerged from Canadian government sources indicating that the United States intends to impose the 25% tariffs on all Canadian imports—set to take effect starting Tuesday—excluding oil and gas. This imminent action seems to contradict statements from White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, who had claimed tariffs would be implemented on Saturday.
Moreover, the Trump administration has warned Canada that retaliation would lead to even higher tariffs. In response, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is expected to address the nation later today, following discussions with provincial and territorial leaders about countermeasures.
Similarly, in Mexico, President Claudia Sheinbaum met with her cabinet late Friday to address the alarming tariff announcement. She remains skeptical about the U.S. actions and is biding her time before announcing Mexico's response.
Across the Pacific, China's government has reiterated its stance that a trade war ultimately benefits no one, advocating for dialogue over conflict. As the world awaits clarity on these looming tariffs, Trump has maintained his assertions from last Friday that the measures against Canada, Mexico, and China will commence as planned. However, the exact nature and breadth of these tariffs remain unclear, pending Trump's signature on relevant executive orders.
In addition to the expected tariffs that would significantly impact various sectors, including metals like steel and aluminum, Trump has also announced his intention to impose tariffs on oil and gas imports starting February 18. Questions remain regarding whether these tariffs will affect fuel imports from Canada and Mexico, two key suppliers.
In the coming months, Trump has promised tariffs across a broad array of imports, potentially reshaping trade dynamics between the U.S. and its neighbors. The stakes are high as America’s trading partners brace for possible escalations in this ongoing economic friction.
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