Things to Get Expensive in US After Trump’s Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China

President Trump’s new tariff order aims to protect American interests but may lead to higher prices for food, fuel, cars, and other goods.

February 2, 2025: President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Saturday imposing tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China. While the President described the move as essential “to protect Americans,” economists are raising alarms about the ripple effects on the US economy. From groceries and gasoline to cars and steel, the tariffs are expected to drive up costs for consumers, potentially exacerbating inflation.

Also Read: Mexico’s President Sheinbaum Rejects Trump’s Accusations, Calls for Dialogue Over Tariffs and Drug Trafficking

Key Details of the Tariffs

Trump announced that the tariffs were aimed at curbing illegal immigration and tackling the production and export of illicit fentanyl from neighboring countries. Mexico and Canada, however, have responded with countermeasures, escalating trade tensions further.

Also Read: Canada Hits Back at US with 25% Tariffs in Response to Trump’s Trade War

Goods That Could Become Costlier

Also Read: China Condemns US Tariffs, Vows Retaliation & WTO Complaint

Food and Agricultural Products
- Fruits, vegetables, nuts, and beef imported from Mexico, worth $45 billion annually, could see price hikes.
- Canada exports about $40 billion in agricultural goods to the US, including pork, grains, and canola oil, which may also face price increases.
- A 25% tariff could significantly raise costs for staples like avocados, tomatoes, and potatoes.
Fuel and Energy
- The US imports $97 billion worth of oil and gas from Canada annually, and a 10% tariff on these products could lead to higher gas prices, especially during the summer months.
- States in the Midwest, such as Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois, are likely to feel the brunt of these changes due to their reliance on Canadian oil.
Cars and Auto Parts
- Tariffs on vehicles and parts from Mexico and Canada—worth a combined $204 billion in 2023—could increase the cost of an average car by $3,000.
- Automakers like Ford, which sources truck engines from Canada, may pass these added costs onto consumers.
Steel and Other Industrial Products
- Canada and Mexico, key steel suppliers to the US, contribute 25% and 12% of US steel imports, respectively.
- A renewed 25% tariff on steel imports could raise costs for automaking, oil production, and construction sectors.
Other Affected Products
- Beer, home construction materials, furniture, electronics, toys, and appliances are also expected to see price increases due to higher import costs.

Economic Impact

Experts warn that these tariffs could intensify inflationary pressures, making essential goods less affordable for Americans. “These additional costs are likely to be passed on to consumers, affecting household budgets and economic stability,” noted one economist.

Consumer Reactions and Opinions

The announcement has sparked debates across social media, with opinions divided on whether the tariffs are a necessary protectionist measure or a costly gamble for the US economy.