In recent remarks in Washington, D.C., U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent advocated for Canada and Mexico to follow America’s lead by imposing similar tariffs on Chinese imports. His statements came as the expiration of a month-long exemption period on U.S. tariffs targeting Mexican and Canadian products approaches swiftly, with negotiations still ongoing.
Speaking to Bloomberg Television, Bessent remarked, “An intriguing suggestion from the Mexican government is matching U.S. tariff rates on China.” He further mentioned, “A similar move from Canada would serve as an excellent gesture as well.”
Bessent indicated that coordinated action by all three North American nations could establish a “Fortress North America,” protecting the region from a potential influx of artificially cheap Chinese goods. U.S. officials have repeatedly flagged China’s excess industrial capacity, cautioning that unchecked imports of undervalued products could severely disrupt the global economy.
Earlier in the week, Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed confidence that a deal with the U.S. was attainable, even hinting at its willingness to impose levies on Chinese imports to reach an agreement. However, President Trump remained firm, announcing that if unresolved issues—such as illegal immigration and narcotics smuggling—persisted, the tariff hikes scheduled for March 4 would be applied.
Further complicating the matter, Trump unveiled an additional 10 percent tariff on imports from China, adding to an existing tariff rate that came into effect in early February.
Demonstrating its sincerity in addressing U.S. concerns, Mexico extradited several high-profile imprisoned cartel leaders this past week, including a notorious criminal wanted for decades for murdering a U.S. undercover operative.
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau assured that his administration is tirelessly working to prevent U.S. tariffs but emphasized readiness to respond immediately should tariffs indeed be activated.