Trump also confirmed that Chinese imports would face an additional 10% duty from the same date, with further tariffs set for April 2.
In a statement, Trump justified the decision by linking the tariffs to drug-related deaths in the US:
“Drugs are still pouring into our Country from Mexico and Canada at very high and unacceptable levels. A large percentage of these Drugs, much of them in the form of Fentanyl, are made in, and supplied by, China. More than 100,000 people died last year due to the distribution of these dangerous and highly addictive POISONS. Millions of people have died over the last two decades. The families of the victims are devastated and, in many instances, virtually destroyed. We cannot allow this scourge to continue to harm the USA, and therefore, until it stops, or is seriously limited, the proposed TARIFFS scheduled to go into effect on MARCH FOURTH will, indeed, go into effect, as scheduled. China will likewise be charged an additional 10% Tariff on that date. The April Second Reciprocal Tariff date will remain in full force and effect. Thank you for your attention to this matter. GOD BLESS AMERICA!”
The decision is expected to heighten tensions with key trading partners and could impact industries reliant on cross-border commerce. Mexico and Canada had previously warned of retaliatory measures if the tariffs were enforced.
Trump has long pushed for tariffs as a tool to address trade imbalances and border security concerns, but critics argue the measures could lead to price hikes and economic disruptions.
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