Washington: US President Donald Trump's decision to enforce 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, alongside raising tariffs on Chinese imports from 10% to 20%, has set the stage for escalating global trade tensions. These measures, effective from Tuesday, are meant to combat the flow of contraband drugs like fentanyl into the United States, according to the White House. The administration emphasized the necessity of these tariffs for national protection, particularly highlighting the failure of Canada and Mexico to address cartel activity and the illegal drug influx.

According to Anadolu Agency, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau strongly criticized the tariffs, deeming them "a very dumb thing to do." In response, Canada has decided to impose 25% tariffs against $155 billion worth of American goods. The initial phase targets $30 billion worth of goods, with the remaining $125 billion to be affected within 21 days. Trudeau made it clear that these tariffs will persist until the US retracts its own, stressing that a trade war has no winners.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her disapproval of the US tariffs, rebuffing claims linking her government to drug trafficking. In retaliation, Mexico plans to implement its own tariffs on American goods, with further details to be revealed on Sunday. Sheinbaum emphasized the importance of mutual respect and equal standing between nations, advocating for negotiated solutions over unilateral actions.

In a similar vein, China reacted by announcing new tariffs on US food products, effective March 10. The Chinese tariffs include a 15% levy on chicken, wheat, corn, and cotton, and a 10% tariff on sorghum, soybeans, pork, beef, aquatic products, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Additionally, China has placed 10 US-based companies on an unreliable entity list and 15 on its export control list, curbing their trade activities with China.

This wave of retaliatory actions underscores the global ripple effects of the US tariffs, as nations brace for a potential escalation in trade conflicts.