Trump advances tariffs and claims critics are controlled by China

President Donald Trump is moving forward with significant tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, despite facing criticism regarding the potential economic fallout.

On February 1, Trump signed an executive order imposing a 25% tariff on products from Canada and Mexico, while a 10% tariff will apply to Chinese goods.

In his announcement, Trump accused those opposing the tariffs of being influenced by foreign entities, particularly China.

“Anybody that’s against Tariffs… is only against them because these people or entities are controlled by China, or other foreign or domestic companies,” he stated.

The tariffs are framed as a response to what Trump describes as threats from illegal immigration and drug trafficking.

He invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to justify these measures, citing a national emergency due to the influx of drugs like fentanyl.

The tariffs are set to take effect on February 4, 2025, and will include exceptions for Canadian energy imports, which will face a lower 10% tariff instead of the full 25%.

This decision reflects the U.S.'s reliance on Canadian oil, which constitutes about 60% of its imported oil supply.

Trump has indicated that he intends to maintain these tariffs even in light of potential retaliatory actions from affected countries.

“They owe us a lot of money, and I’m sure they’re going to pay,” he remarked.

The move has sparked fears of escalating trade tensions and possible retaliatory measures from Canada and Mexico.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has previously warned that Canada would respond decisively to any tariffs imposed by the U.S.

As the situation develops, analysts suggest that these tariffs could lead to increased prices for American consumers and disrupt supply chains across multiple sectors.

Trump’s administration appears determined to leverage tariffs as a tool for influencing trade policies related to immigration and drug control.