In a bold campaign promise, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump announced that, if elected, he would impose tariffs on Mexico and China unless both governments take concrete steps to halt the flow of fentanyl into the United States. Trump addressed supporters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on the last day of campaigning, emphasizing his plans to tackle drug trafficking and secure the southern U.S. border.
Tariffs and Tough Stance on Drug Trafficking
Trump warned that he would impose a 25% tariff on all imports from Mexico unless newly-elected Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo takes action against the “onslaught” of drugs at the border. “We will immediately stop the drugs pouring across our border,” Trump declared. He also extended this stance to China, asserting that he would apply a similar 25% tariff on all Chinese imports until they cease the export of fentanyl to Mexico, which he claims is then trafficked into the U.S. “Those drugs will stop so damn fast that your head will spin,” he stated.
In addition to his trade threats, Trump reiterated his commitment to the mass deportation of undocumented immigrants if he assumes office on November 5.
Sheinbaum’s Reserved Response
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, in response to Trump’s remarks, maintained a stance of caution. She indicated that her government would withhold any official statement regarding U.S.-Mexico relations until after the U.S. election results are announced. “We will decide only after the entire electoral process in the United States is completed,” Sheinbaum remarked, underscoring that her approach mirrors the caution exercised by former President Lopez Obrador during previous U.S. elections. She emphasized her government’s respect for the American electoral process and affirmed a commitment to cooperation regardless of the election outcome.
