Tariff woes

The recent reiteration by President-elect Donald Trump to impose sweeping tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China signals a potential shift in US trade and foreign policy.

While such measures are presented as solutions to illegal immigration, drug trafficking, and economic imbalances, their ramifications could extend far beyond the stated objectives.

The underlying economic and geopolitical implications of these threats deserve closer scrutiny.

At the heart of this strategy lies the imposition of steep tariffs — 25 per cent on goods from Canada and Mexico and 10 per cent over and above the already high tariffs on imports from China.

While these tariffs might seem like a bold move to protect American interests, their immediate effect would likely be felt by US consumers and businesses.

Prices of everyday necessities, such as automobiles, electronics, and agricultural products, could surge.

Mexico, for instance, supplies critical components to the US auto industry, while Canada is a major provider of energy and manufacturing goods.