United States President, Donald Trump, has agreed to delay imposing 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico for 30 days.
The decision follows separate negotiations with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who each committed to tightening border security in exchange for the tariff relief.
After last-minute discussions with Trump, Trudeau agreed to bolster Canada’s border with the US to curb migration and the trafficking of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid.
Meanwhile, Sheinbaum pledged to deploy troops to Mexico’s northern border to stem illegal crossings, with the US reciprocating by limiting the flow of firearms into Mexico.
While the temporary agreement eased tensions with Canada and Mexico, a separate tariff battle escalated with China. At 00:01 EST (05:00 GMT) on Tuesday, a 10% tariff on Chinese imports took effect after a deadline for negotiations expired.
In response, Beijing swiftly imposed retaliatory tariffs, targeting American exports with a 15% levy on coal and liquefied natural gas, as well as a 10% duty on crude oil and agricultural machinery.
Trump signalled that the US-China trade conflict could intensify, describing the initial tariff as the “opening salvo” and warning that duties could become “very, very substantial” if no agreement is reached. He also indicated plans to speak with his Chinese counterpart soon.
The breakthrough with Canada and Mexico came as both countries prepared to impose retaliatory tariffs on American goods.
The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, on Saturday, announced retaliatory tariffs against the united States in response to the now-suspended Trump’s imposed tariffs on Canadian imports.
