The governments of China, Mexico, and Canada have strongly condemned new tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, pledging to take reciprocal measures in response.

The tariffs, which target imports from all three countries, were announced by the Trump administration on Saturday as part of a broader economic and national security strategy.

China’s Ministry of Commerce issued a statement expressing strong dissatisfaction and opposition to Trump’s decision, calling it a violation of international trade rules. The ministry warned that China would take "corresponding countermeasures to firmly safeguard its rights and interests."

Beijing also announced its intention to file a formal complaint against Washington at the World Trade Organization (WTO), emphasizing the economic risks of escalating trade conflicts. "There is no winner in a trade war," the statement declared, urging the U.S. to engage in diplomatic negotiations rather than impose punitive trade restrictions.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo denounced Trump’s tariffs and refuted accusations that her government is linked to drug trafficking. In a post on social media platform X, she wrote, "We categorically reject the White House's false claim that the Mexican government has formed alliances with criminal organizations."

Sheinbaum announced that Mexico’s Secretariat of Economy has been instructed to implement "Plan B," a series of economic countermeasures, including both tariff and non-tariff restrictions, aimed at protecting Mexico’s trade interests.

Similarly, outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded with plans for immediate retaliatory tariffs on American goods. Canada will impose tariffs on CAD 30 billion worth of U.S. exports starting Tuesday, with additional levies on CAD 125 billion in American products expected within 21 days.

Trudeau also signaled that non-tariff measures may be introduced in coordination with Canada’s provinces and territories. "As part of our response, we are considering several non-tariff measures, including those related to critical minerals, energy procurement, and other partnerships," he stated.

The Trump administration has framed the tariffs as a necessary measure to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking, particularly the fentanyl crisis in the United States. The new policy imposes a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, with a lower 10% tariff specifically on Canadian energy resources. Imports from China will face a 10% tariff in addition to existing duties.

Trump’s executive order also includes provisions allowing for tariff increases if targeted nations implement countermeasures.

The tariffs mark a significant escalation in trade tensions between the U.S. and its key economic partners. Experts warn that retaliatory measures from Canada, Mexico, and China could disrupt supply chains and lead to increased costs for American businesses and consumers.

While the Trump administration argues that these tariffs will boost domestic manufacturing and federal revenue, analysts caution that prolonged trade disputes could harm global economic stability. The effectiveness of Trump’s strategy remains uncertain as affected nations move forward with their promised counteractions. (ILKHA)