(NewsNation) — President-elect Donald Trump on Monday proposed aggressive economic measures against Mexico, Canada and China over concerns about border security and drug trafficking.
Trump called for a 25% tariff on all products from Mexico and Canada, citing the influx of migrants and drugs across the United States’ borders.
“As everyone is aware, thousands of people are pouring through Mexico and Canada, bringing Crime and Drugs at levels never seen before,” Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. “On January 20th, as one of my many first Executive Orders, I will sign all necessary documents to charge Mexico and Canada a 25% Tariff on ALL products coming into the United States, and its ridiculous Open Borders.”
The former president also addressed the issue of fentanyl, specifically targeting China’s role in the drug trade.
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Trump claimed he had previously discussed the matter with Chinese representatives, who reportedly promised the “maximum penalty” of death for drug dealers. However, he alleged that no substantial action was taken.
As a result, Trump proposed an additional 10% tariff on Chinese products, which would be layered on top of existing trade restrictions.
Trump pledged during his campaign to impose import taxes of 10 to 20% on all foreign goods, with tariffs of up to 60% on Chinese goods. Canada, Mexico and China are the U.S.’s largest trading partners.
Trump’s threat comes days after he announced he would nominate investor Scott Bessent as his Treasury secretary. His selection makes Bessent a key player in implementing Trump trade’s agenda and attempting to keep markets calm amid the expected disruption.
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The former president rattled financial markets and key U.S. trading partners throughout his first term with his tariff agenda.
Trump imposed tariffs on foreign steel and aluminum — including from Canada and Mexico, two close U.S. allies — citing national security concerns. He also compelled both countries to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with terms meant to boost U.S. manufacturing and improve compliance with labor laws.
Trump’s most aggressive actions, however, were focused on China. The former president imposed tariffs on billions of dollars in Chinese goods as he pressured Beijing to renegotiate major aspects of the U.S.-China economic relationship.
NewsNation partner The Hill contributed to this report.
