Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed push for aggressive tariffs on Canada and Mexico is sparking geopolitical drama and economic jitters, with experts warning of potential fallout for the trilateral USMCA trade pact. 🔥 Could his 'favorite word'—tariff—upend North American trade relations?
The ‘External Revenue Service’ Plan
Trump announced plans to create a new department to collect tariffs and duties from foreign countries on his first day back in office, doubling down on his controversial 25% tax proposal for all imports from Canada and Mexico. Critics call it a high-stakes poker move, while supporters argue it’s a 'necessary defense' against illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
Canada’s Cold Response 🇨🇦
Days after Trump’s threat, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reportedly met him privately at Mar-a-Lago. Leaked details suggest Trump jokingly floated annexing Canada as 'the 51st state' and called Trudeau 'governor,' adding fuel to the diplomatic fire. Trudeau’s office has remained tight-lipped, stating only that 'all options are on the table.'
USMCA’s Uncertain Future
The 2020 United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) reshaped North American trade, but Trump’s tariff ambitions could strain ties. Analysts say retaliatory measures from Ottawa and Mexico City might follow, risking a trade war. 'This isn’t just about economics—it’s a power play,' said one policy expert. 'The ripple effects could hit consumers, jobs, and even cultural exchanges.' 🛑💸
With tensions simmering, the world watches to see if Trump’s tariff talk becomes reality—or fades like a discontinued Netflix drama.
Reference(s):
Analysis: Are Trump's tariff plans for Canada, Mexico real threats?
cgtn.com