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After a meeting in the Oval Office with the Prime Minister of Japan Shigeru Ishiba, the President of the United States, Donald Trump, announced that he will impose new tariffs on several countries in order to protect the U.S. economy and reduce the trade deficit.
“The week after next, I will announce reciprocal tariffs so that we are treated on equal terms with other countries. We do not want more or less. So, I will announce it next week, along with many other things,” said the president, as reported by the agency Efe.
The Republican announced that in the press conference he will hold next week, he will talk about reciprocal trade. “We will explain it quite simply”, he stated.
The countries for which the Trump administration started imposing tariffs were Mexico, Canada, and China, justifying it as a measure to protect the U.S. economy and address concerns related to drug trafficking and illegal immigration.
These tariffs were announced to take effect starting February 1, 2025. However, they were delayed by a month following bilateral meetings between Trump and the leaders of the affected countries.
The measure imposes tariffs of 25% on products from Mexico and Canada, and 10% on those of Chinese origin. Trump justifies these actions by claiming that these countries allow the entry of drugs, particularly fentanyl, and migrants into the United States.
In response, Canada and Mexico announced retaliatory measures. Canada plans to impose a 25% tariff on U.S. products worth $106 billion, while Mexico has also announced the implementation of tariff countermeasures.
However, following the dialogue between the leaders, Mexico agreed to send 10,000 National Guard members to the border with the United States as part of the agreement, and Canada appointed a “fentanyl czar”, along with a border security plan valued at $1.3 billion, which includes new helicopters, advanced technology, more personnel, and improved coordination with U.S. authorities.
These decisions have raised concerns among economists and analysts, who warn about potential increases in consumer prices and a slowdown in economic growth in the United States. Additionally, there are fears that these policies could trigger a global trade war and an inflationary spiral.
For its part, China, whose tariffs were imposed starting February 4, has implemented retaliatory measures, including a 15% tariff on U.S. coal and liquefied natural gas, and a 10% tariff on oil, agricultural machinery, and certain vehicles.
It has also announced an antitrust investigation against Google and export controls on critical resources such as tungsten and tellurium.
Frequently Asked Questions about Donald Trump's New Tariffs
Why is Donald Trump imposing new tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China?
Donald Trump imposes new tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China to protect the American economy and address concerns related to drug trafficking and illegal immigration. According to Trump, these countries allow the entry of fentanyl and undocumented migrants into the United States.
What are the specific tariffs that will be imposed on each country?
The tariffs will be 25% on products from Mexico and Canada, and 10% on those of Chinese origin. These tariffs are justified as measures to combat drug trafficking and illegal immigration to the United States.
What responses have Mexico and Canada given to the new tariffs?
In response to Trump's tariffs, Mexico has agreed to deploy 10,000 members of the National Guard at the border with the United States to curb drug trafficking, while Canada has announced a border security plan of $1.3 billion and retaliatory tariff measures of 25% on U.S. products.
What economic consequences could tariffs have for the United States?
Economists warn that the new tariffs may lead to increased consumer prices in the United States and an economic slowdown. There is fear that these policies could trigger a global trade war and an inflationary spiral, negatively impacting both U.S. consumers and businesses.
How has China reacted to the U.S. tariffs?
China has implemented retaliatory measures, including a 15% tariff on U.S. coal and liquefied natural gas, and a 10% tariff on oil and agricultural machinery. Additionally, it has announced an antitrust investigation against Google and export controls on critical resources.
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