Former President and now President Elect Donald Trump has announced plans to impose substantial new tariffs on America's top three trading partners immediately upon taking office, citing concerns over immigration and drug trafficking.
In a series of Truth Social posts Monday, Trump declared he would sign executive orders on January 20th implementing a 25% tariff on all imports from Mexico and Canada, along with an additional 10% levy on Chinese goods.
The sweeping proposal targets the United States' largest suppliers of imported goods, potentially triggering significant price increases for American consumers across multiple sectors, including automotive, energy, and agriculture.
Trump justified the aggressive trade measures by claiming unprecedented levels of illegal immigration and drug trafficking across U.S. borders, despite data showing border apprehensions near four-year lows and violent crime declining from pandemic peaks.
"Until such time as drugs, in particular fentanyl, and all illegal aliens stop this invasion of our country!" Trump wrote, demanding both northern neighbours "use their power" to address these issues or "pay a very big price."
The announcement's timing and severity have raised questions about whether these threats represent genuine policy intentions or negotiating tactics. Scott Bessent, Trump's Treasury Secretary nominee, has previously characterised tariffs as negotiation tools.
If implemented, the tariffs would mark a dramatic escalation in U.S. trade policy, potentially disrupting global supply chains and diplomatic relations with key allies.

Chinese products in retail market, consumers buying it

President-elect threatens 25% levy on northern neighbours over border issues, 10% on Beijing

Trump Vows Mexico-Canada-China Tariff Blitz

President-elect threatens 25% levy on northern neighbours over border issues, 10% on Beijing

November 26, 2024 | 10:54 IST