Trump will not ease up on fentanyl-related tariffs, US Commerce Secretary Lutnick says

U.S. President Donald Trump holds an executive order about tariffs increase, flanked by U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., February 13, 2025. REUTERS/File Photo

U.S. Commerce Secretary Affirms Continuation of Tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China

Tariffs Linked to Fentanyl Crisis

U.S. President Donald Trump will maintain tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China as part of his administration’s efforts to address the fentanyl crisis, according to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

• In an interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press” on Sunday, Lutnick stated that tariffs would remain in place until Trump is satisfied with efforts to curb the flow of fentanyl into the United States.
• “If fentanyl ends, I think these [tariffs] will come off. But if fentanyl does not end, or he’s uncertain about it, he will stay this way until he is comfortable,” Lutnick said.
• He emphasized that the issue is a matter of public health and safety, adding, “This is black and white. You got to save American lives.”

Implementation of Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum

Lutnick confirmed that the United States will proceed with the scheduled imposition of 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports on Wednesday.

• Both Canada and Mexico, major exporters of these metals, will be significantly affected.
• Canada, in particular, accounts for the majority of U.S. aluminum imports.

Economic Impact and Inflation Concerns

Lutnick dismissed concerns that Trump’s tariff policies could trigger a U.S. recession.

• When asked whether the tariffs could negatively impact economic growth, he responded, “Absolutely not. There’s going to be no recession in America.”
• However, he acknowledged that the tariffs could lead to higher prices for U.S. consumers on imported goods.
• “Some products that are made foreign might be more expensive, but American products will get cheaper, and that’s the point,” Lutnick said, arguing that the tariffs would boost domestic production and competitiveness.