Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced Monday that he would delay the implementation of a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico for one month.
The decision came after phone conversations with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
According to reports, both leaders assured Trump that they would take stronger measures to curb illegal immigration and the trafficking of fentanyl into the U.S.
President Trump described his conversation with Sheinbaum as "very friendly" and stated that he had immediately suspended the tariffs on Mexico after she pledged to deploy 10,000 troops to the U.S.-Mexico border to prevent fentanyl smuggling.
Following the discussion, Sheinbaum announced on social media that Mexico would enhance security at its northern border to combat drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl.
Additionally, the Mexican president confirmed that the U.S. had committed to stopping the illegal flow of "high-powered" firearms into Mexico. She also expressed her intention to continue discussions with Trump on security and trade matters.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also characterized his conversation with Trump as "positive" and revealed that Canada would deploy 10,000 officers to secure its southern border. He further stated that Canada would classify drug traffickers as terrorists, intensify efforts against money laundering, and appoint a special advisor to address fentanyl-related issues.
Meanwhile, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to increasing tariffs on the European Union, prompting EU officials to warn of a strong response.
Looking ahead, Trump indicated that negotiations on a new trade agreement with Mexico would take place in the coming months. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick are expected to meet with senior Mexican officials to discuss the matter.
China, which recently faced a 10% tariff on its exports to the U.S., has announced its intention to file a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding the move. Trump stated that he might hold phone discussions with Chinese officials within the next 24 hours to explore a potential resolution.
