In a bold response to escalating trade tensions, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced on Saturday that Mexico will impose its own tariffs and other measures against the United States, following U.S. President Donald Trump's recent tariff impositions.
The announcement marks a significant shift in the relationship between the two neighbors, as Sheinbaum rejected accusations from Washington alleging that her government has alliances with drug trafficking groups, dismissing them as \"slander.\"
\"This comes after President Trump signed an order imposing tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China,\" Sheinbaum noted, underscoring the broader impact of the U.S. trade policies on international partners.
In a detailed post on X, formerly known as Twitter, President Sheinbaum emphasized Mexico's desire for collaboration over confrontation. \"We categorically reject the White House's slander that the Mexican government has alliances with criminal organizations, as well as any intention of meddling in our territory,\" she wrote.
Since taking office in October, Sheinbaum has aimed to ease tensions with the United States. She highlighted her government's efforts to combat drug trafficking, including the seizure of 20 million doses of fentanyl—a deadly synthetic opioid—and the arrest of over 10,0000 individuals linked to drug-related activities.
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Saturday that Canada would impose 25 percent tariffs on C$155 billion (US$106.5 billion) worth of U.S. goods in retaliation for the U.S. tariffs. Trudeau specified that C$30 billion worth of goods would be affected starting Tuesday, with the remaining C$125 billion implemented in 21 days.
The actions by Mexico and Canada signal a growing discontent with U.S. trade policies, raising concerns about potential impacts on the North American economy and global markets.
As the situation develops, stakeholders in all three countries are closely monitoring the ramifications of these escalating trade measures.
(With input from agencies)
Reference(s):
Mexican president says Mexico will retaliate against U.S. tariffs
cgtn.com
