Sun Feb 02 04:40:29 UTC 2025: ## Trump’s New Tariffs Spark International Trade War

**Washington D.C./ Ottawa/ Mexico City/ Beijing –** US President Donald Trump has ignited a global trade war, imposing 25% tariffs on most goods imported from Canada and Mexico, and an additional 10% on goods from China. The move, justified by the White House as a necessary measure to combat illegal immigration and drug trafficking, has drawn swift and strong condemnation and retaliatory threats from the affected nations.

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced immediate counter-tariffs of 25% on $155 billion worth of US goods, starting with $30 billion on Tuesday. These tariffs will target a wide range of products, including beer, wine, lumber, and consumer appliances. Trudeau emphasized that while Canada doesn’t seek escalation, it will defend its interests and jobs.

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum stated that her government has activated a “Plan B” to implement defensive tariff and non-tariff measures. She also vehemently rejected the White House’s accusations of collusion with drug cartels.

China’s foreign ministry vowed corresponding countermeasures and plans to file a complaint with the World Trade Organization, stating that a trade war benefits no one and will negatively impact bilateral cooperation. Beijing urged the US to engage in constructive dialogue and resolve the issues through cooperation.

The new tariffs are expected to significantly disrupt North American supply chains, impacting everyday consumers. US imports from Canada and Mexico totaled nearly $900 billion in 2023, with deeply integrated trade relationships. The increased costs are likely to affect prices for a wide range of goods, including avocados, tomatoes, and other popular food items. Similarly, a significant portion of Canadian and Mexican exports rely on the US market.

Trump’s decision, made under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, marks a significant escalation in trade tensions and raises concerns about the potential for further retaliatory measures and broader global economic instability. The White House maintains that the tariffs are a powerful tool for protecting national interests, and it has hinted at future tariffs on the European Union and other sectors.

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