White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed on Friday that the United States will impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China starting Saturday, February 1, citing concerns over illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
During a press briefing, a reporter asked whether reports suggesting the tariffs might be delayed until March 1 were accurate. Leavitt firmly denied the claims, stating, “I saw that report, and it is false. I was just with the President in the Oval Office, and I can confirm that the February 1 deadline remains in place as originally announced by President Trump.”
White House has confirmed 25% tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and 10% (for now) on China will go into effect on February 1st. pic.twitter.com/JcG41Lu5hO
— Resist Times (@resistupdates) January 31, 2025
She elaborated that the administration would implement a 25 percent tariff on both Canada and Mexico, as well as a 10 percent tariff on China, citing their roles in allowing illegal fentanyl to flow into the United States.
“These countries have sourced and allowed the distribution of fentanyl into our country, which has led to the deaths of tens of millions of Americans,” Leavitt stated. “This is a clear example of President Trump keeping his promises.”
When asked about Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s vow to fight the tariffs and his statement that he would “not relent until the tariffs are removed,” Leavitt dismissed the concerns. “I don’t think this is the start of a trade war. The President is going to implement these tariffs tomorrow, and he will respond to Mr. Trudeau’s comments in due time.”
Leavitt was also pressed on what actions Canada, Mexico, and China would need to take to avoid these tariffs. She reiterated that the decision was tied to their failure to curb illegal fentanyl trafficking and border security issues. “Canada and Mexico have allowed an unprecedented influx of illegal fentanyl that is killing American citizens, as well as illegal immigrants crossing into our country,” she said.
She further emphasized the scale of the crisis, stating, “The amount of fentanyl seized at the southern border in the last two years alone has the potential to kill tens of millions of Americans. That is why these tariffs are necessary.”
Regarding Trudeau’s response, Leavitt advised the Canadian leader to approach the matter diplomatically rather than making public statements. “I think Justin Trudeau would be wise to talk to President Trump directly before making outlandish comments to the media,” she remarked.
The White House’s decision to impose these tariffs signals a strong stance against countries it deems responsible for contributing to the U.S. drug and border crisis. While the tariffs are set to take effect immediately, their long-term impact on international trade and diplomatic relations remains to be seen.
This is a developing story.