President Donald J. Trump plans to introduce tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico starting Saturday, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. On Friday afternoon, Leavitt announced to reporters that Canada and Mexico will face 25 percent tariffs, while a 10 percent tariff will be applied to China unless the countries agree to enact measures to curb the flow of illegal fentanyl into the United States.
This decision stems from Trump’s pledge to implement economic tariffs on the three to force their action to assist American operations to secure its borders, deport illegal immigrants, and end drug trafficking. “These are promises made and promises kept by the president,” Leavitt stated, highlighting that the tariff on China targets the distribution of illegal fentanyl originating from there, which has resulted in numerous American deaths.
🚨BREAKING: Karoline Leavitt confirms that the Reuters report is FALSE. Tomorrow, Feb 1st is the deadline for the tariffs
There will be a 25% tariff on Canada, a 25% tariff on Mexico, and a 10% tariff on China
No clarification on exemptions
They will be LIVE in under 24 hours pic.twitter.com/7pzV9pblD9
— Autism Capital 🧩 (@AutismCapital) January 31, 2025
Details on specific products subject to the tariffs remain unclear, but Leavitt indicated that more information would become available within the next 24 hours. In response, both Canada and Mexico have indicated they may retaliate with their own tariffs. Outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized readiness for a response.
“It’s not what we want, but if he moves forward, we will also act,” Trudeau stated.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum assured that her country is prepared with several strategies should the tariffs be enforced. She emphasized the importance of defending Mexico’s dignity and sovereignty and called for respectful dialogue.
Trump had initially issued the tariff warning in November, urging Canada and Mexico to address drug trafficking and illegal immigration. In response, Trudeau and Trump met at Mar-a-Lago to discuss the tariffs. Trump reportedly suggested that financial difficulties from tariffs could be avoided if Canada joined the U.S. as a state.