Nations Continue To React To White House Tariffs

Reaction continues to pour in after President Trump announced the implementation of tariffs against key allies, including Mexico, Canada and the EU.  Mexico said it will levy import taxes on U.S apples, cranberries, grapes, pork bellies, some cheeses, and some types of steel.  The EU had its own list.  And, Canada slapped a surtax on American steel, aluminum, coffee, candy, pizza, and even quiche

Former USDA trade adviser Paul Drazek disputes the claim that imported steel from longtime war ally Canada or others is a ‘national security’ threat.

“Once you start using National security, for import protection, what’s to stop countries from saying food security is National security for them, and they need to make themselves more self-sufficient, especially if the U.S. is no longer going to be a reliable supplier, and reliable trader.”

Some of Trump’s advisers agree the President that it’s time to stand up against unfair foreign tariffs and trading practices.  Others argue against tariffs, as do key lawmakers in both parties.

“Well, I think he’s getting good advice from a lot of people, and no doubt, including Sonny Perdue, but I think he’s taking his advice from the handful of people who simply want to lash out and slap other countries with tariffs for whatever reason they have in mind.”

The question remains what lasting impact will this have on trade as well as foreign relations.

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