Biden criticizes Trump’s tariff threat on Canada and Mexico as ‘harmful’

President Joe Biden criticized President-elect Donald Trump’s plan to implement a 25% tariff on Canada and Mexico, calling it “counterproductive.” Trump announced the tariff in a post to Truth Social, saying it would remain until issues such as drugs and illegal immigration were addressed. Trump’s transition team did not immediately respond to Biden’s comments. While on the campaign trail, Trump had promised more tariffs, especially on China, but economists have warned that these could lead to higher costs for consumers. Trump also claimed to have a “wonderful conversation” with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who stated that Mexico’s position is not to close borders. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has also spoken with his country’s premiers about trade with the U.S., with a focus on Canadian jobs and strengthening the partnership with the United States. Biden made his remarks during a Thanksgiving Day visit to Massachusetts. The U.S. imports the most goods from China, with Mexico and Canada being the second and third top suppliers. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative tracks these statistics. Biden emphasized the importance of nurturing relationships with neighboring countries and urged Trump to reconsider the tariffs.

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