The U.S. Imposes Tariffs on Imports from Canada, Mexico, and China as Part of America First Policy - EU Might Be Next
Trump imposes tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China as part of his America First policy. Norway could be indirectly affected, particularly industries such as timber, aluminum, and seafood.
President Donald J. Trump has imposed a 25% additional tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, as well as a 10% additional tariff on imports from China. Energy resources from Canada will face a reduced 10% tariff. This move is aimed at leveraging America’s economic position to secure its borders against illegal immigration and combat the fentanyl crisis, according to the White House statement on February 1st.
The Ambassador Bridge between Detroit, USA, and Windsor, Canada, is the busiest border crossing between the countries, and much of the trade takes place here. Photo: Rebecca Cook / Reuters / NTB
Temporary Suspension of Tariffs on Canada and Mexico; Tariffs on China Remain in Place
Recent developments indicate that the United States has postponed the implementation of tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico by one month. Originally scheduled to take effect on February 4, 2025, these tariffs have been delayed until March 4, 2025, following negotiations between President Trump and the leaders of Canada and Mexico, where both Canada and Mexico have taken measures to strengthen border security in response to U.S. concerns. In Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the appointment of a "fentanyl czar" and the formation of a joint task force with the U.S. to fight organized crime. Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum promised to deploy 10,000 National Guard members to reinforce the border
The 10% tariff on imports from China has been implemented as planned, effective February 4, 2025. The tariffs on China are part of ongoing U.S. efforts to leverage economic pressure in addressing trade imbalances and other international concerns. Many Chinese products are already subject to 10% and 25% tariffs. Now, goods worth $400 billion will face an additional 10% tariff.
China responds to the U.S. with tariffs on American goods, imposing a 15% tariff on U.S. coal and LNG (liquid natural gas) and a 10% tariff on certain other American products. These will take effect on February 10. China has filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization (WTO) regarding the U.S. tariffs.
Reason for concern for Norway too, warns the Norwegian foreign minister
Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide states that Norway is prepared for potential U.S. tariffs on Europe, now that President Trump has followed through on his long-standing threat by imposing punitive tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China—America's largest import sources.
If the EU is next and retaliates, Norway could face higher export costs to its key European trading partners, given its position outside the EU’s customs union. In a worst-case scenario, Norway could be caught between U.S. and EU trade measures.
Although Norway is not directly affected by these tariffs, the ongoing trade war could still have a significant impact on its economy. The U.S. is a major market for Norwegian seafood, and companies like Mowi and Grieg Seafood, which have operations in Canada, could be affected as much of their production is exported to the U.S.