On July 31, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to increase the tariff on Canadian imports from 25% to 35%, effective August 1, 2025. This action is part of a national emergency declaration aimed at addressing the public health crisis associated with the influx of fentanyl and other illegal drugs from Canada. The decision follows concerns regarding Canada’s cooperation in combating drug trafficking and its responses to U.S. measures.

The article highlights the increasing involvement of Canadian drug trafficking organizations, particularly in the production of fentanyl, which poses a significant threat to public health in the United States. Recent statistics show that fentanyl seizures at the northern border have exceeded totals from the previous three years, illustrating the seriousness of the crisis. The President’s administration has concluded that further action is necessary to protect American lives and maintain national security.

In conjunction with the tariff increase, goods qualifying for preferential treatment under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) will remain unaffected. The article emphasizes that the U.S. government has offered Canada opportunities to address the drug crisis, but the responses have not met expectations. Consequently, President Trump’s administration is implementing these increased tariffs as a measure to hold Canada accountable and address the ongoing drug crisis.

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