EU, Canada, and Mexico Slam Trump's Tariff Hike Decision

The U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to reimpose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports has sparked strong criticism from the European Union, Canada, and Mexico, fearing the escalation of a trade conflict, reports NewsBox.

On the evening of February 10, Trump signed orders to raise tariffs on aluminum imports to 25% (up from 10%) and cancel preferential exclusions for certain countries and quota agreements, as well as rescind hundreds of thousands of exceptions on tariffs for specific steel and aluminum products.

The new measures, taking effect on March 12, will impact the import of millions of tons of steel and aluminum from Canada, Brazil, Mexico, South Korea, and other nations that were previously imported into the U.S. duty-free due to existing exceptions, according to Reuters.

Mexico’s Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard deemed the tariff decision "unjustified" and "unfair," without specifying whether Mexico plans to impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. steel and aluminum imports.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also expressed disagreement, calling the tariffs "unacceptable." He emphasized that Canada’s response will be firm and clear, if necessary.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen joined the condemnation, noting that the 27 EU countries will adopt "tough and proportional countermeasures" in response to the U.S. actions.

Trump claimed that this measure will simplify the metal tariff system. "It’s 25% with no exceptions or exemptions," he emphasized, adding that it applies to all countries, regardless of origin.

On Monday, Trump also announced plans to declare retaliatory tariffs in the coming days for countries imposing tariffs on U.S. goods, and hinted at the possibility of tariffs on automobiles, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals. When asked about potential retaliatory measures from other countries in response to the new tariffs, Trump replied, "I’m not against it."