Trade tensions rise as Trump, Trudeau exchange tariffs
Donald Trump approved 25% tariffs on products from Canada. Canadian fans reacted to the U.S. president's move by booing during the American anthem before an NHL game.
The White House cited the influx of fentanyl across the northern and southern borders of the U.S. and the role of China in supplying drug cartels with precursors needed to manufacture the drug, which contributed to the deaths of nearly 100,000 Americans last year, as the official reason for imposing the tariffs.
The regulation on tariffs imposed on Canadian products, signed by Trump, stated that this issue seriously threatens societal stability. It highlighted the infiltration of gang members, smugglers, human traffickers, and illegal drugs into communities across the border. The regulation also criticized Canada’s role in these challenges, citing a lack of sufficient attention, resources, and coordination with U.S. law enforcement to curb the flow of illicit substances. The new tariffs are set to take effect on Tuesday, February 4, at midnight Eastern Time.
In the regulation, Trump asserted that he would no longer remain passive while the nation's sovereignty was undermined, its laws violated, its citizens put at risk, and its borders disregarded.
Canada's retaliation
Trump's move was met with an immediate response from Canada. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the imposition of 25% retaliatory tariffs on American goods worth approximately 155 billion Canadian dollars. Ottawa's decision is a response to Donald Trump's actions. Some Canadian provinces went even further.
The "hot" decision was also discussed during the American-Canadian NHL hockey league game. In Canada, local fans loudly booed the American anthem, which is traditionally played just before matches.
