Donald Trump, newly sworn in as President of the United States, announced on Monday plans to impose a 25% tariff on goods entering the U.S. from Canada and Mexico. The declaration came just hours into his second term at the White House, amid a flurry of executive orders.
“We’re thinking in terms of 25 per cent on Mexico and Canada, because they’re allowing a vast number of people to come in,” Trump stated while signing orders shortly after his inauguration. He went on to suggest the tariffs could take effect as early as February 1, 2025, marking a significant shift from earlier reports that the president intended to delay such measures.
Before Monday, advisers had suggested a more cautious approach, indicating Trump would first direct trade authorities to assess relationships with China, Canada, and Mexico. But the president has previously threatened tariffs on goods from all three countries, reflecting concerns over illegal immigration and domestic industry protection. Fears remain high in the European Union that the U.S. could also extend new tariffs beyond North America.
Tariffs are effectively surcharges on imported goods, levied at the point of entry. Trump previously used similar measures during his first term from 2017 to 2021, stirring debate on global trade and prompting retaliatory tariffs from U.S. partners. Monday’s announcement suggests renewed tension may loom as February approaches.
