The White House spokesperson, Caroline Leavitt, confirmed on Tuesday that February 1 remains the set date for imposing tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. This was stated in her first press briefing, in which she is the youngest White House press secretary at 27 years old.

Customs Details

• Leavitt did not specify a clear date for imposing tariffs on steel and copper, but she indicated that a study on imposing new tariffs on China is scheduled to go into effect next Saturday.

• Last week, President Donald Trump announced his plans to impose a 25% tariff on Canada and Mexico, justifying the decision by the need to address fentanyl smuggling and illegal immigration into the United States.

Trump's Statements

In his statements, Trump noted that foreign countries would bear the cost of the tariffs, although customs duties are usually paid by local importers and passed on to consumers.

Canadian Reactions

• Melanie Joly, Canadian Foreign Minister: She confirmed that Canada will continue its efforts to prevent the imposition of tariffs, but clarified that the government is also working on plans to respond if the decision is implemented.

• Dominique LeBlanc, Canadian Finance Minister: He stated that Canada expects any unpredictable actions from Trump, noting that Ottawa is fully prepared to face these scenarios.

Impact of the Decision

This trade escalation poses a new challenge to economic relations between the United States and its trading partners, amidst warnings that imposing these tariffs could negatively affect trade and commodity prices in North America.

Summary

• February 1 is the confirmed date for imposing tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China.

• The U.S. President justifies the decision with issues of smuggling and immigration.

• Canada declares its readiness to respond if the United States implements its plans.