Big changes could be on the horizon for global trade, thanks to President Trump’s latest move. Over the weekend, Trump announced sweeping tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China, citing concerns about national security, fentanyl smuggling, and illegal immigration. But this decision is already sparking major backlash and raising fears about the future of the global economy.
Starting Tuesday at 12:01 a.m., most imports from Canada and Mexico will face a 25% tariff, with Canadian energy products hit with a smaller 10% levy. Chinese goods will also see a 10% tariff. The move has drawn sharp criticism from lawmakers, economists, and business leaders, who worry it could drive up prices, hurt American industries, and inadvertently boost China’s role as a global trade powerhouse.
Trump defended the decision on social media, acknowledging there might be some “pain” but suggesting it could still pay off. Meanwhile, Canada and Mexico have already vowed to retaliate with their own tariffs, and China has promised to take “countermeasures” to protect its interests.
Experts warn that this could scramble the international trading system, potentially weakening the U.S.’s position while strengthening China’s. For now, the world is watching closely to see how this unfolds—and whether the global economic order as we know it will survive.