Trump imposes tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China over fentanyl crisis

The White House announced on Saturday a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, along with a 10% additional tariff on China

This follows a Friday announcement that U.S. President Donald Trump would impose new tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China over the weekend.

The new measures include a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and Canada, and a 10% tariff on Chinese imports, which will remain in place until those countries “cooperate fully” with the U.S. in combating drug trafficking, according to the White House.

Fentanyl crisis drives tariff action

“President Donald Trump is taking decisive action to protect Americans from the fentanyl crisis. Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 45,” a statement from the White House read.

The U.S. government accused Mexican cartels of being “the world’s leading traffickers” of fentanyl and other drugs, suggesting a possible alliance between the cartels and the Mexican government.

Regarding Canada, the White House pointed to growing fentanyl production and illegal border crossings, citing that enough fentanyl was seized at the northern border in the past fiscal year to kill 9.8 million Americans.

Meanwhile, China was criticized for allegedly subsidizing chemical companies involved in the export of fentanyl, with the White House claiming that China not only fails to curb illicit drug trade but also “actively helps this business.”

The tariffs are designed to pressure Mexico, Canada, and China into greater cooperation on drug enforcement and border security, the White House added.