WASHINGTON—As reported by Reuters, yesterday President Trump confirmed that tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports will proceed as scheduled despite both countries’ efforts to strengthen border security and combat fentanyl trafficking ahead of the March 4 deadline. 

At a joint news conference with French President Emmanuel Macron, Trump stated the tariffs would move forward as planned, though he did not mention the deadline directly. The 25% tariffs, which could impact over $918 billion in trade—including the auto sector—could significantly disrupt the North American economy.

Canada and Mexico had previously secured a one-month delay by tightening border controls, but experts believe any further postponement will depend on clear evidence of continued progress. Meanwhile, the White House and trade officials have not commented on negotiations. In addition to the Canada-Mexico tariffs, Trump has escalated trade measures by increasing steel and aluminum tariffs to 25% and threatening new duties on autos, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductors. He has also hinted at reopening negotiations on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) ahead of its 2026 deadline, citing concerns over auto imports.

Mexico has responded by deploying 10,000 National Guard troops to its northern border and engaging in trade discussions with U.S. officials. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has taken similar measures, appointing a fentanyl czar, reclassifying drug cartels as terrorist groups, and increasing border surveillance. While Trudeau has threatened retaliatory tariffs on $107 billion worth of U.S. goods, he has also committed to preventing U.S. tariffs from taking effect.