In a surprising move, President Donald Trump has announced plans to slap 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada starting February 1. This bold shift in trade policy could mean higher prices for everyday items, from electronics to groceries, for American shoppers. The decision, revealed during an Oval Office ceremony, marks a significant change in how the U.S. handles trade with its North American neighbors. While Trump has long championed tariffs as a way to protect American jobs, critics worry this move could backfire, driving up costs for consumers already grappling with inflation. Trump’s team is still hammering out the details of his broader trade strategy, which may include smaller tariffs that increase over time or delayed implementation to allow for negotiations. However, the president has made it clear he’s committed to overhauling trade policies to benefit American workers and families. “Instead of taxing our citizens to enrich other countries, we will tariff and tax foreign countries to enrich our citizens,” Trump said during his address. He also teased the creation of a new government office, the “External Revenue Service,” to manage tariff collections. But not everyone is on board. Some economic advisors are pushing for a softer approach, fearing that steep tariffs could spark retaliation from other nations and reignite inflation. Past tariffs under Trump’s first term led to higher prices on everything from cars to whiskey, as other countries hit back with their own taxes on U.S. goods. Experts warn that American consumers could end up footing the bill. Research from the Peterson Institute for International Economics suggests that Trump’s tariff plan would raise prices on imported goods like electronics, toys, and even food. As the debate continues within the administration, one thing is certain: these tariffs could reshape trade relations across North America—and beyond. Whether they’ll deliver the promised benefits or create new challenges remains to be seen. This story has been updated with additional details. ---