Donald Trump Plans Calls with Mexico and Canada Amid ‘Trade War’ Tensions, Declares ‘We Can Play This Game’ | US News
Donald Trump is scheduled to address the leaders of Canada and Mexico later today, cautioning them against retaliating against his tariffs by stating: “We can play the game all they want.”
The U.S. president has declared that he is enforcing 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico.
In response, the two nations subsequently imposed retaliatory tariffs.
However, upon returning to Washington from Mar-a-Lago on Sunday night, the president dismissed the retaliatory measures.
“I love the people of Canada. I disagree with the leadership of Canada. And something’s gonna happen there.”
“If they want to play the game, I don’t mind. We can play the game all they want.”
Mr. Trump further threatened to enforce even higher tariffs elsewhere, informing reporters that import taxes will “definitely happen” concerning the European Union.
When probed about possible tariffs on the UK, Mr. Trump answered, “we’ll see what happens”.
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The Trump administration claims the tariffs are intended to curb the spread and production of the opioid fentanyl, as well as to pressure America’s neighbors to curb illegal immigration into the U.S.
However, this could trigger a trade war and elevate prices for American consumers.
Donald Trump speaks to reporters next to Air Force One after arriving back at Joint Base Andrews. Pic: AP Photo/Ben Curtis
Asian markets experienced a drop in shares during early trading on Monday, while U.S. equity futures fell significantly following Mr. Trump’s announcement of the tariffs.
Japan’s Nikkei index opened down 2% this morning, with significant declines also seen in Taiwan and South Korea’s markets.
“Trump’s trade war has commenced,” stated Alvin Tan, head of Asia currency strategy at RBC Capital Markets in Singapore.
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Read more:
Why has Trump targeted Mexico and Canada?
How Donald Trump’s tariffs could impact consumers
Earlier on Sunday, Mr. Trump commented that any potential fallout from the trade war would be justified.
“Will there be some pain? Yes, maybe (and maybe not!). It will all be worthwhile for the price that must be paid.”
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Meanwhile, Canada’s High Commissioner to the UK, Ralph Goodale, warned allies during an interview with Sky News’ Kamali Melbourne.
He stated: “I would just advise our allies around the world to watch this closely; you could be next. In the meantime, stand by your friends.”
He characterized Mr. Trump’s comments as a “salesman’s pitch,” adding that despite their historically close ties, “we don’t want to be each other.”
