Trump Announces Increased Tariffs Amid Drug Trafficking Concerns
President Trump announced plans to double tariffs on Chinese goods to 20% due to drug trafficking issues. He will also implement 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports. China’s Ministry criticized the tariffs, stating they would be counterproductive. Discussions with Britain for a trade agreement are ongoing.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced a significant increase in tariffs on imports from China, intending to double the additional tariff to 20 percent starting next week. He attributed this increase to China’s insufficient efforts in combating the influx of illegal drugs, particularly fentanyl, into the United States. Furthermore, he reiterated his commitment to impose 25 percent tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, citing ongoing issues with drug manufacturing and trafficking from these nations.
In a social media announcement, President Trump stated, “Unless the scourge of drug trafficking stops or is seriously limited, the proposed tariffs will go into effect on March 4 as scheduled.” He also noted an additional 10 percent tariff on Chinese goods that would take effect on the same date. The move triggered a response from China’s Commerce Ministry, which criticized the tariff, asserting that Beijing has enacted some of the strictest counternarcotics policies in the world.
The Ministry accused the United States of shifting blame and warned that the tariffs would place undue burdens on American consumers and companies, destabilizing the global supply chain. The statement emphasized that China would take necessary defensive measures to protect its interests if the U.S. proceeds with the tariff increases. Despite an expected conversation between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, there have been no substantial interactions reported between the two leaders or their administrations.
President Trump also commented on the drug situation with Canada and Mexico, expressing frustration over the lack of progress, especially in response to inquiries following his meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Trump confirmed that reciprocal tariffs would remain effective starting April 2. Previously, there was a delay in imposing these tariffs to encourage Canada and Mexico to take more action against illegal immigration and drug smuggling.
The new tariffs on China came after the White House imposed an initial 10 percent levy earlier this month, which prompted China to announce retaliatory measures. Trump emphasized China’s failure to curb fentanyl precursor shipments, which contribute significantly to overdose deaths in the U.S. He has also hinted at further tariffs on imported vehicles from the European Union, highlighting the potential for increased trade tensions not only with China but also with U.S. allies such as Japan and South Korea.
Following a meeting with Prime Minister Starmer, President Trump discussed the possibility of a favorable trade agreement with Britain, indicating that such a deal could eliminate the need for tariffs. He acknowledged Starmer’s diligence during their discussions, stating, “He earned whatever the hell they pay him over there,” which elicited laughter from attendees.
President Trump plans to double tariffs on Chinese imports to 20% amidst concerns over drug trafficking. The administration will also implement 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods. China’s response has been critical, asserting their counter-narcotics efforts are robust. Ongoing discussions about tariffs with other nations could lead to heightened global trade tensions, while potential trade agreements with Britain may offer some relief.
Original Source: english.kyodonews.net
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