US President Donald Trump’s announcement of 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada and Mexico has sparked widespread criticism from both countries, with fears that it could ignite a global trade war.
Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the measures “unjustified” and vowed to take strong action if necessary. He also stated that Canada would work with international partners to pressure the Trump administration into reconsidering its decision.
European countries also expressed their opposition, describing the tariffs as “unjustified”. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, said that the US actions could have serious consequences for global trade and economic stability.
Mexico’s government warned that the tariffs could damage the North American market, which has been integrated over several decades. The country’s secretary of the economy, Marcelo Ebrard, expressed concerns about the impact on Mexico’s steel industry and appealed to Mr Trump to reconsider his decision.
The US tariffs are seen as a major blow to Canada’s economy, which relies heavily on exports to the US. Canadian steel production employs 23,000 people, and almost all its products are sold to the US market. The move also has significant implications for Mexico, which is the third-largest supplier of steel to the US.
Mr Trump’s decision comes after a series of disputes with his trading partners, including Canada and Mexico. Last year, he imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from these countries, leading to retaliatory measures by both nations. The dispute was resolved when the three countries signed a revised free trade agreement.
The imposition of new tariffs has significant implications for global markets and trade relationships. It could also have long-term consequences for industries that rely heavily on exports, such as the steel industry.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/11/world/canada/trump-metals-tariff-canada-mexico.html