The Global Trade War Handbook offers a deep dive into the bigger picture, but new developments are unfolding daily. This TRADLINX Tariff Tracker keeps you up to speed on the latest tariff changes, global responses, and their impact on supply chains.


Timeline of Key Developments

📅 March 6 – March 13, 2025 Key Developments

  • March 9: Mexico’s Retaliatory Tariffs: As predicted, Mexico announced its countermeasures against U.S. tariffs. Details on specific products targeted are still emerging but it is expected to focus on agricultural and industrial goods.
  • March 12: Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Take Effect: The U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from all countries (including Canada) that do not fall under USMCA went into effect. This triggered Canada’s retaliatory tariffs.
  • March 12-13: Canada Responds with Tariffs: Canada followed through with its promise to impose tariffs on a wide range of U.S. goods, escalating the trade dispute.
  • March 13: Discussions Planned: Canadian officials are scheduled to meet with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to discuss the situation. The outcome of these discussions is uncertain.

Ongoing Issues:

  • USMCA Uncertainty: The temporary pause on tariffs for USMCA-compliant goods is still set to expire on April 2, 2025. The future of these tariffs depends on negotiations between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
  • Potential for Further Escalation: The trade war could worsen if the U.S. imposes tariffs on additional countries or if Canada and Mexico increase their retaliatory measures.
  • Supply Chain Disruptions: Businesses are facing increased costs, potential delays, and uncertainty in their supply chains due to the tariffs.

Key Dates to Watch:

  • April 2, 2025: Expiration of the pause on USMCA-compliant tariffs. This could lead to a reinstatement of tariffs on these goods.
  • April 10, 2025: Canada’s second phase of retaliatory tariffs could go into effect if the U.S. tariffs persist.

📅 March 6, 2025 – US Pauses Tariffs on USMCA-Compliant Goods

The Trump administration has temporarily paused tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico that qualify under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). This move follows discussions between President Donald Trump, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.

  • Duration: The pause will last until April 2, 2025.
  • Scope: Applies only to USMCA-compliant goods. Other imports from Canada and Mexico remain subject to 25% tariffs.
  • Reason: Trump cited “economic cooperation” and ongoing trade negotiations with both countries.

📌 Read the full White House statement here


🛑 USMCA Auto Tariff Delay (March 6, 2025)

  • A one-month exemption was granted for cars imported under USMCA, following pressure from General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis.
  • Reciprocal tariffs on all other trading partners will still go into effect on April 2, 2025.
  • Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed that a broader tariff delay on USMCA goods is being finalized.

📌 Source: CNBC Interview with Commerce Secretary Lutnick


🇨🇦🇲🇽 Canada & Mexico’s Response

🇨🇦 Canada:

  • Canada’s 25% retaliatory tariffs on $30 billion worth of US goods remain active, with the second phase of $125 billion expected after a 21-day review period.

📌 Canada’s Tariff Response Details

🇲🇽 Mexico:

  • Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is set to announce countermeasures against US tariffs on March 9, 2025.
  • She stated that Mexico will focus on retaliatory tariffs on US agricultural and industrial products.

📌 Sheinbaum’s Statement on X


📊 Next Key Trade Policy Dates

DateEvent
March 9Mexico to announce retaliatory tariffs
March 12New 25% tariffs on steel & aluminum imports take effect
April 2Reciprocal Tariffs on all trading partners begin
April 10Canada’s second phase of tariffs could go into effect

🔍 What This Means for Businesses

  • USMCA Tariff Pause Eases Immediate Pressure – Companies importing goods under USMCA have a one-month relief, but should prepare for possible April 2 tariff reinstatement.
  • Auto Industry Benefits from Exemption – North American automakers gain short-term relief, but should monitor future trade negotiations.
  • More Trade Uncertainty Ahead – Canada and Mexico are continuing with retaliatory measures, meaning cross-border supply chains remain at risk.

📢 Stay tuned for more updates as this situation evolves.


📅 March 6, 2025 (Latest updates)

USMCA Auto Tariff Exemption (1-Month Pause)

The U.S. will give a one-month tariff exemption on cars entering the country from Canada and Mexico under the USMCA, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced Wednesday.

  • Why the Pause? The decision follows direct discussions between President Trump and the Big Three automakers—General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis.
  • Tariff Timing: While reciprocal tariffs will still go into effect on April 2, the auto industry has been granted an exemption to avoid economic disruption (source).
  • Trump-Trudeau Talks: Trump spoke with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau but did not reach a broader tariff pause agreement (source).
  • Mexico’s Next Move: Trump is expected to speak with Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum on March 7, ahead of Mexico’s planned countermeasure announcement on March 9.

🇺🇸 U.S. Implements Tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico

President Trump has confirmed that the 10% tariff on all Chinese imports and 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico have officially gone into effect in March 4th.

  • China Tariff Increase: The new 10% tariff doubles the previous rate, bringing total tariffs on Chinese imports to 20%.
  • Canada & Mexico Tariffs: After weeks of uncertainty, President Trump confirmed that tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports will proceed as planned.
  • Industry Impact: Major sectors affected include automotive, electronics, and industrial materials, with immediate cost implications and potential supply chain disruptions.

🏛 CBP Announces Tariff Enforcement Plans

  • Harmonized Tariff Schedule Update: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has published a Federal Register notice outlining enforcement procedures.
  • Exceptions:
    • Low-value de minimis shipments remain exempt.
    • Personal-use goods brought by travelers are not subject to the new tariffs.
    • Humanitarian shipments and donations are excluded.
  • No Drawback Allowed: Importers cannot claim tariff refunds under the duty drawback program.

🌍 Global Trade Reactions & Retaliatory Measures

🇨🇳 China: Tariffs and Export Restrictions

China has responded swiftly to the U.S. tariff increase with a mix of countermeasures:

  • New Tariffs on U.S. Goods:
    • 15% on coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
    • 10% on crude oil, agricultural machinery, and automobiles.
    • 15% on key agricultural exports like soybeans, wheat, pork, and dairy.
  • Export Restrictions on Rare Earths: China has limited the export of critical rare earth metals essential for U.S. electronics and defense industries.
  • Regulatory Crackdowns:
    • Tech firms like Google, Intel, and Tesla are facing intensified scrutiny.
    • PVH Corp. (parent of Tommy Hilfiger and Calvin Klein) has been added to China’s “unreliable entity list.”

🇨🇦 Canada: $155 Billion in Retaliatory Tariffs

Canada has implemented a two-phase countermeasure targeting U.S. goods:

📌 Phase 1 (March 4) – 25% Tariffs on $30 Billion in U.S. Imports:

  • Food & Beverage: Orange juice, peanut butter, wine, beer, coffee.
  • Consumer Goods: Appliances, apparel, cosmetics, motorcycles.
  • Industrial Goods: Pulp and paper products, aluminum.

📌 Phase 2 (March 25) – $125 Billion in Additional Tariffs (If U.S. Tariffs Persist):

  • Automobiles & Trucks
  • Electronics & Machinery
  • Steel & Aluminum

📌 Ontario’s Energy Export Tax:

  • Premier Doug Ford announced a 25% surcharge on electricity exports to U.S. states (Michigan, New York).
  • Ontario may fully cut off electricity exports in April if U.S. tariffs escalate.

🇲🇽 Mexico: Retaliatory Tariffs Expected March 9

  • Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that Mexico will impose targeted tariffs on U.S. goods.
  • Details of the affected goods will be released on March 9.
  • Non-Tariff Measures: Additional regulatory actions may be implemented against U.S. firms operating in Mexico.

🇪🇺 European Union: Tariffs Expected Soon

  • Trump announced that a 25% tariff on EU imports (including cars) will be implemented “very soon.”
  • He accused the EU of taking advantage of the U.S., stating, “The EU was formed to screw the U.S.”
  • European leaders have warned of swift retaliation in response.

📄 Source: European Commission Trade Policy


🔍 Key Takeaways for Businesses & Supply Chains

  1. Supply Chain Costs Will Rise: Importers should anticipate higher costs across affected goods, particularly in automotive, energy, and agriculture.
  2. Customs Compliance Challenges: Increased documentation, HS code changes, and potential delays at border crossings.
  3. China & Canada Trade Alternatives: Businesses sourcing from these countries should explore suppliers in Mexico, Vietnam, and South Korea.
  4. Further Escalation Possible: Additional tariffs on the EU and global reciprocal tariffs are expected in April.
  5. Logistics Disruptions Likely: Expect congestion at ports and trucking delays.

📅 February 28, 2025

🇺🇸 U.S. Tariff Announcements (Trump’s Confirmation)

  • Trump announced on Truth Social that the 10% tariff on all Chinese imports and 25% tariffs on Canada & Mexico will take effect on March 4 as planned.
    • 10% Tariff on China: The U.S. will impose a new 10% tariff on all Chinese imports starting March 4, doubling the existing 10% tariff rate on key goods.
    • 25% Tariffs on Canada & Mexico: After weeks of uncertainty, President Trump confirmed that tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports will go into effect as planned.
    • Potential Delay? Despite the announcement, there is still speculation that a last-minute delay could occur, as past tariff deadlines have shifted.

📅 February 26, 2025

🇺🇸🇲🇽🇨🇦 Potential Delay for Mexico/Canada Tariffs – Uncertainty Remains

  • Initial Report: President Trump suggested the new tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada would take effect on April 2nd, a month later than the previously stated March 4th deadline.
  • Clarification Needed: A White House official contradicted this, stating the March 4th deadline remains in effect “as of this moment,” pending Trump’s review of Mexican and Canadian border security efforts.
  • Confusion from Trump: Trump’s comments during a cabinet meeting were ambiguous, contributing to the confusion.

🇺🇸🇪🇺 EU Tariffs Imminent, According to Trump

  • 25% Tariffs “Soon”: Trump stated that tariffs on the European Union will be announced “very soon,” generally at a 25% rate, targeting cars “and all other things.”
  • Justification: Trump justified the tariffs by claiming the EU has taken advantage of the U.S., citing a $300 billion deficit and barriers to U.S. car and farm product imports.
  • “EU Formed to Screw the U.S.”: Trump explicitly stated his belief that the European Union was formed to economically disadvantage the United States.
  • Retaliation Threats Dismissed: He dismissed concerns about EU retaliation, stating that the U.S. is the “pot of gold” and can simply stop buying from the EU, which he believes would lead to a U.S. victory.

🌍 Broader Tariff Strategy Reaffirmed

  • Reciprocal Tariffs Coming in April: Trump reiterated his plan to implement reciprocal tariffs against all countries based on their tariff rates on U.S. exports, slated for April.
  • Mexico Seeking Deal: Mexico aims to secure a tariff deal with the U.S. before the March 4th deadline.

Key Takeaways:

  • Broad Tariff Approach: Trump’s overall strategy remains one of using tariffs as leverage to address trade imbalances and other policy objectives.
  • Uncertainty: Trump’s statements continue to introduce uncertainty into the trade landscape, with conflicting signals about the timeline for tariffs on Mexico and Canada.
  • Aggressive Stance on EU: The comments indicate an increasingly aggressive stance towards the EU, with the possibility of significant tariffs being imposed soon.

📅 February 19, 2025

🇺🇸 Trump Reveals Potential Tariff Rates for Key Industries

During a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, President Trump provided more specific details on potential tariff rates:

  • Auto tariffs: “in the neighborhood of 25 percent”
  • Semiconductors and pharmaceuticals: starting at “25 percent and higher, and it’ll go very substantially higher over the course of a year”

Trump indicated he will likely announce the new auto tariff rate on April 2. He also mentioned plans to give companies time to establish U.S. factories to avoid tariffs on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals.


📅 February 19, 2025

🇺🇸 U.S. Expands Steel and Aluminum Tariffs

  • President Trump signed proclamations on February 10 to expand Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum:
    • Eliminates all existing country exemptions
    • Expands the list of derivative articles subject to tariffs
    • Raises the tariff rate on aluminum from 10% to 25%
    • These changes are set to take effect on March 12, 2025

🇺🇸 U.S. Announces Reciprocal Tariff Plan

  • On February 13, Trump signed a plan to impose reciprocal tariffs on all trade partners
  • The “Fair and Reciprocal Plan” will examine non-reciprocal trade relationships, including tariffs, unfair taxes, nontariff barriers, and exchange rate policies
  • This could lead to increased tariffs on various goods, such as raising tariffs on EU car imports from 2.5% to 10%

🌍 Global Trade Implications

  • The EU is preparing retaliatory measures against potential U.S. tariffs
  • The U.S. administration is examining Beijing’s adherence to a 2020 trade agreement, with findings scheduled to be presented by April 1
  • Potential legislation in the U.S. Congress to revoke China’s “most favored nation” status, which could lead to significantly higher tariff rates on Chinese imports

📅 February 17, 2025

🇺🇸 U.S. Tariffs Expand to Steel and Aluminum

  • New Tariffs:
    • President Trump signed an executive order on February 10, 2025, imposing 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports, effective March 12, 2025.
    • These tariffs eliminate previous country exemptions and apply to downstream products like fabricated structural steel. Key impacted partners include Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, and the EU.
  • Earlier Tariff Status:
    • 25% tariffs on Canadian/Mexican imports (excluding Canadian energy at 10%) remain delayed until March 4, 2025, pending further negotiations.
    • 10% tariffs on all Chinese goods (imposed February 4) remain in effect indefinitely.

🇨🇳 China’s Escalated Retaliation

  • Tariffs in Effect:
    • 15% tariffs on U.S. coal and LNG and 10% tariffs on crude oil, agricultural machinery, and vehicles took effect February 10, 2025.
    • China expanded export controls on rare earth metals (tungsten, molybdenum, indium) and critical minerals, complicating global supply chains for semiconductors and defense tech.
  • Regulatory Actions:
    • Antitrust investigations into Google and other U.S. tech firms continue, with expanded scrutiny on data practices.
    • PVH Group (Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger) and Illumina (biotech) added to China’s “Unreliable Entity List,” restricting their operations in China.

🇨🇦 Canada’s Retaliatory Measures

  • Phased Tariffs:
    • Phase 1 ($30B CAD): 25% tariffs on U.S. goods (apparel, spirits, motorcycles, paper) active since February 4.
    • Phase 2 ($125B CAD): Delayed pending public consultation (ends February 25). Targets include EVs, aerospace, steel, and agricultural goods.
  • Strategic Leverage:
    • Finalizing plans to restrict lithium, cobalt, and rare earth exports to the U.S.
    • Appointed Kevin Brosseau (ex-Royal Canadian Mounted Police) as “fentanyl czar” to address U.S. border security concerns.

🇲🇽 Mexico’s Negotiated Delay

  • Tariff Pause:
    • Secured a 30-day delay on U.S. tariffs (until March 4) by deploying 10,000 National Guard troops to combat cartels on the northern border.
    • Preparing Plan B countermeasures, including tariffs on U.S. pork, steel, and produce, though specifics remain undisclosed.

🌍 Global Escalation & Economic Risks

  • EU Preparations:
    • The EU is drafting retaliatory measures against potential U.S. tariffs (up to 10% on EU imports), targeting agricultural and industrial goods.
  • Economic Warnings:
    • Canada/Mexico: Risk of recession if tariffs persist. Quebec Premier Legault warned of 100,000 Canadian job losses; Mexico’s GDP could drop 4% in 2025.
    • U.S. Industries: Auto, energy, and construction sectors face cost spikes for materials like Canadian lumber and Mexican produce.
  • WTO Challenges:
    • China and Canada have filed WTO complaints against U.S. tariffs, calling them violations of international trade rules.

Key Developments Timeline

DateEvent
Feb 4U.S. tariffs on China (10%) take effect. Canada’s Phase 1 retaliatory tariffs begin.
Feb 10China’s retaliatory tariffs/export controls begin. U.S. steel/aluminum tariffs announced.
March 4Deadline for U.S.-Canada/Mexico tariff negotiations.
March 12U.S. steel/aluminum tariffs take effect.

📅 February 14, 2025

🇺🇸 U.S. Expands Steel and Aluminum Tariffs

  • President Trump signed a proclamation on February 10 imposing 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports, effective March 12, 2025.
  • This move eliminates previous country exemptions and extends to downstream products like fabricated structural steel.
  • The tariffs will impact key trading partners, including Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union.

🇺🇸 U.S. Announces Reciprocal Tariff Regime

  • On February 13, President Trump announced plans for a reciprocal tariff regime against countries that impose trade barriers on the U.S.
  • The U.S. Department of Commerce will conduct an assessment, expected to be completed by April 1, to determine appropriate tariff levels for each country.

🇪🇺 EU in Trump’s Tariff Crosshairs

  • President Trump has stated he “absolutely” plans to impose tariffs on goods from the European Union.
  • The EU has reportedly offered to lower tariffs on U.S. automobile imports in an effort to avoid potential U.S. tariffs.
  • Experts suggest the EU may retaliate with countermeasures against U.S. technology services if tariffs are imposed.

🇨🇳 China’s Retaliatory Measures in Full Effect

  • China’s previously announced retaliatory tariffs officially took effect on February 10, 2025.
  • These include 15% tariffs on U.S. coal and liquefied natural gas, and 10% tariffs on crude oil, agricultural machinery, large-displacement cars, and pickup trucks.

📅 February 13, 2025

🇨🇳 China’s Continued Trade Actions

  • Export Controls on Rare Earths Expanded: China has further tightened export controls on rare earth minerals, including tungsten and molybdenum, making it more difficult for U.S. companies to access these critical materials. This move is part of China’s broader response to U.S. tariffs.
  • Antitrust Investigation into U.S. Tech Firms: The antitrust investigation into Google by China’s State Administration for Market Regulation has reportedly expanded to include other U.S. tech companies, though specific names have not yet been disclosed.

🇺🇸 U.S. Tariff Developments

  • Steel and Aluminum Tariffs: The U.S. has confirmed that the 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports will take effect on March 12, 2025, impacting imports from Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union.
  • Tariffs on Canadian and Mexican Imports: The 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, delayed until March 4, remain unchanged. Negotiations are ongoing, with border security measures being a key discussion point.

🇨🇦 Canada’s Strategic Moves

  • Critical Minerals Leverage: Canada is reportedly finalizing plans to restrict exports of critical minerals like lithium and cobalt to the U.S., though no official announcement has been made yet.
  • Phase 1 Retaliatory Tariffs: Canada’s Phase 1 retaliatory tariffs ($30 billion CAD), targeting U.S. goods such as coffee, spirits, apparel, motorcycles, and paper products, remain in effect.

🌍 Global Trade Risks Escalate

  • EU Prepares for Retaliatory Measures: The European Union is preparing its response to potential U.S. tariffs of up to 10% on EU imports, which could target agricultural products and industrial goods.
  • Supply Chain Disruptions Intensify: Economists warn that China’s export restrictions on rare earth minerals could accelerate efforts in the U.S. and EU to develop alternative supply chains but may cause short-term disruptions.

📅 February 12, 2025

🇺🇸 U.S. Expands Steel and Aluminum Tariffs

  • On February 10, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order imposing a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, effective March 12, 2025.
  • This move eliminates all previous country exemptions and extends to downstream products like fabricated structural steel.
  • The tariffs will impact key trading partners, including Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, and the European Union.

🇨🇳 China’s Retaliatory Measures in Effect

  • China’s previously announced retaliatory tariffs officially took effect on February 10, 2025.
  • China has expanded export controls on additional critical minerals, including tungsten.
  • Two U.S. companies, PVH Group and Illumina, have been added to China’s “Unreliable Entity List”.

🇨🇦 Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy

  • Canada is considering using its critical minerals resources as leverage in trade negotiations with the U.S.
  • However, experts note that Canada’s current production volumes of critical minerals are still too small to be a decisive factor in imminent tariff talks.

🌍 Global Trade Implications

  • The trade tensions between the U.S. and its partners continue to escalate, with potential for further disruptions to global supply chains.
  • Economists warn that these actions could exacerbate inflationary pressures worldwide.

📅 February 10, 2025

🇨🇳 China’s Retaliatory Tariffs Take Effect

New Tariffs Implemented:

  • As of February 10, 2025, China has officially imposed 15% tariffs on U.S. coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
  • China has also imposed 10% tariffs on U.S. crude oil, agricultural machinery, pickup trucks, and large-engine vehicles.

Further Export Controls:

China has expanded restrictions on critical minerals, including tungsten, tellurium, bismuth, molybdenum, and indium. These controls aim to limit U.S. access to materials essential for semiconductors and defense technologies.

Antitrust Investigation into Google:

China’s State Administration for Market Regulation has launched an antitrust investigation into Google as part of its broader response to U.S. tariffs.

🇺🇸 U.S. Stance on Tariffs

  • The White House reaffirmed that the 10% tariff on all Chinese imports, implemented on February 4, will remain in place indefinitely.
  • The 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, delayed until March 4, are still expected to proceed unless further agreements are reached.

🇨🇦 Canada Prepares Export Restrictions

  • Canada is reportedly finalizing plans to restrict exports of critical minerals like lithium and cobalt to the U.S., though no official announcement has been made yet.
  • Phase 1 of Canada’s retaliatory tariffs ($30 billion CAD), targeting U.S. goods like coffee, spirits, apparel, motorcycles, and paper products, remains in effect.

🌍 Global Trade Risks Escalate

  • EU Prepares for Retaliatory Measures: The European Union is preparing its response to potential U.S. tariffs of up to 10% on EU imports, which could target agricultural products and industrial goods.
  • Supply Chain Disruptions: Economists warn that China’s export restrictions on critical minerals could accelerate efforts in the U.S. and EU to develop alternative supply chains.

📅 February 7, 2025

🇨🇳 China Tightens Critical Mineral Export Controls

  • New Licensing Requirements:
    • As of February 4, 2025, China has implemented stricter export controls on five critical minerals: tungsten, tellurium, bismuth, molybdenum, and indium. These materials are essential for industries such as semiconductors, defense, and renewable energy.
    • Exporters must now obtain licenses for over 20 products related to these minerals, including processing technologies and specifications.
  • Impact:
    • The move is expected to limit global access to these materials and increase reliance on alternative suppliers. While not a full ban, the restrictions aim to “safeguard national security and interests.”
  • Related Actions:
    • China reaffirmed its 15% tariffs on U.S. coal and LNG and 10% tariffs on crude oil, agricultural machinery, and vehicles, effective February 10, 2025.

🇨🇦 Canada Advances Critical Minerals Strategy

  • New Investments in Quebec:
    • On February 6, 2025, Canada announced a major investment in Quebec’s critical minerals sector under the Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy. This initiative aims to expand domestic production of materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
  • Export Restrictions Under Consideration:
    • Canada is reportedly finalizing plans to restrict exports of critical minerals to the U.S., though no official announcement has been made yet.

🌍 Global Trade Implications

  • EU Prepares for Retaliatory Measures:
    • The European Union is preparing its response to potential U.S. tariffs of up to 10% on EU imports, which could target agricultural products and industrial goods.
  • Supply Chain Shifts:
    • Economists warn that China’s export restrictions on critical minerals could accelerate efforts in the U.S. and EU to develop alternative supply chains for these materials.

📅 February 6, 2025

🇨🇳 China Expands Retaliatory Measures

New Tariffs:

  • China reaffirmed its plan to impose 15% tariffs on U.S. coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG) and 10% tariffs on crude oil, agricultural machinery, pickup trucks, and large-displacement vehicles, effective February 10, 2025.
  • Export Controls: China has tightened export restrictions on critical minerals such as tungsten, tellurium, bismuth, molybdenum, and indium, essential for high-tech industries like semiconductors and defense.
  • Unreliable Entity List: Two U.S. companies—PVH Group (Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger) and Illumina (biotechnology)—were added to China’s “Unreliable Entity List,” restricting their business operations in the country.
  • WTO Complaint Filed: China filed a formal complaint with the WTO over U.S. tariffs, accusing the U.S. of violating international trade rules.

🇨🇦 Canada Evaluates Critical Minerals Export Restrictions

  • Canada is reportedly finalizing plans to restrict exports of critical minerals like lithium and cobalt to the U.S., though no official announcement has been made yet.
  • Phase 1 of Canada’s retaliatory tariffs ($30 billion CAD), targeting U.S. goods such as coffee, spirits, apparel, motorcycles, and paper products, remains in effect.

🇲🇽 Mexico Maintains Tariff Delay

  • Mexico confirmed that the one-month delay in U.S. tariffs remains in place until March 4, 2025.
  • No specific retaliatory measures have been announced yet, but Mexico continues to prepare countermeasures in case tariffs proceed next month.

🌍 Broader Implications

  • EU Prepares for Potential U.S. Tariffs: The Trump administration has hinted at imposing blanket tariffs of up to 10% on EU imports, prompting the EU to announce preemptive retaliatory measures targeting U.S. goods like agricultural products and industrial equipment.
  • Global Trade Risks Escalate: Economists warn that these actions could further disrupt global supply chains and exacerbate inflationary pressures worldwide.

📅 February 5, 2025

🇺🇸 U.S. Tariff Implementation Updates

  • The 10% tariff on all Chinese imports officially took effect on February 4 as scheduled.
  • Tariffs on Canada and Mexico have been delayed until March 4, 2025, following negotiations between President Trump, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and President Claudia Sheinbaum.
  • Tariff breakdown (now delayed until March 4):
    • 25% tariff on all imports from Canada and Mexico.
    • 10% tariff on Canadian energy exports, covering crude oil, natural gas, uranium, and refined petroleum products.
    • The delay allows for further discussions on border security measures, with Canada and Mexico agreeing to increase anti-drug trafficking efforts.
    • The White House reaffirmed that tariffs could still proceed in March if no agreement is reached. (Source)

🇨🇦 Canada’s Retaliatory Measures & Temporary Pause

  • Phase 1 of Canada’s retaliatory tariffs ($30B CAD) took effect on February 4, applying a 25% tariff on U.S. goods such as coffee, spirits, apparel, motorcycles, and paper products.
  • Phase 2 tariffs ($125B CAD) were paused before implementation following negotiations with the U.S.
  • Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed:
  • “Proposed tariffs will be paused for at least 30 days while Canada implements a $1.3 billion border plan to enhance security.”
  • Canada is still considering additional export restrictions on critical minerals as a non-tariff measure. (Source)

🇲🇽 Mexico Avoids Immediate Tariffs, No Retaliation Yet

  • Mexico secured a one-month delay in U.S. tariffs by deploying 10,000 National Guard troops to its northern border.
  • No specific retaliatory tariffs have been announced yet, but Mexico is preparing countermeasures in case tariffs go into effect in March. (Source)

🇨🇳 China’s Countermeasures to Start February 10

  • China condemned the U.S. tariffs as a WTO violation and announced specific retaliatory tariffs set to take effect February 10:
    • 15% tariff on U.S. coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
    • 10% tariff on crude oil and agricultural machinery.
    • The Chinese government is also increasing trade talks with BRICS nations and the EU to reduce reliance on U.S. imports. (Source)

📅 February 4, 2025 (Latest Updates)

🇨🇦 Canada-U.S. Tariff Pause

  • Canada and the U.S. have agreed to a 30-day delay in implementing tariffs as both nations coordinate anti-drug trafficking efforts at their shared border.
  • Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed: “Proposed tariffs will be paused for at least 30 days while Canada implements a $1.3 billion border plan to enhance security.”
  • The original February 4 tariff enforcement date is now pushed to March 4, 2025.

February 3, 2025

🇨🇦 Canada Retaliates

  • 25% retaliatory tariffs on $155 billion worth of U.S. goods, implemented in two phases:
    • Phase 1 ($30B): Effective February 4 (includes alcohol, apparel, motorcycles).
    • Phase 2 ($125B): Expected February 25 (includes vehicles, aerospace, steel/aluminum).
  • Canada is also considering critical mineral restrictions as a non-tariff measure. (Source)

🇲🇽 Mexico Secures Tariff Delay

  • Mexico negotiated a one-month delay in U.S. tariffs by agreeing to deploy 10,000 National Guard troops to the northern border.
  • Tariffs were set for February 4, but are now postponed until March 4, 2025.
  • Mexico has not yet announced specific retaliatory tariffs but is preparing countermeasures. (Source)

🇨🇳 China Prepares Retaliation

  • China condemns U.S. tariffs (10% on all imports) and pledges “necessary countermeasures.”
  • Considering filing WTO complaints and expanding trade with non-U.S. partners. (Source)

February 2, 2025

🇨🇦 Nova Scotia’s Provincial Response

  • Bans sales of U.S. alcohol and doubles tolls for U.S. commercial trucks. (Source)

🇺🇸 Federal Register Notice Expected Soon

  • U.S. will release an official product list of items affected by new tariffs. (Source)

February 1, 2025

🇺🇸 U.S. Tariffs Announced

  • Executive Order signed by President Trump imposing:
    • 5% tariffs on Canada & Mexico (except 10% on Canadian energy).
    • 10% tariffs on China (all imports).
  • Effective February 4, unless goods were loaded before February 1. (Source)

🌍 Global Trade War Expands

  • Trump warns 100% tariffs on BRICS countries if they ditch the U.S. dollar. ( Source)

Future Timeline: What’s Coming Next?

DateExpected EventDetails
Feb 4, 2025Canada’s Phase 1 Retaliatory Tariffs Begin$30B in tariffs on U.S. goods (alcohol, motorcycles, apparel).
Feb 4, 2025U.S. Tariffs on Canada & China Take Effect25% on Canada/Mexico; 10% on China.
Feb 25, 2025Canada’s Phase 2 Tariffs ExpectedIncludes EVs, aerospace, steel/aluminum, agricultural goods.
March 4, 2025U.S. Tariffs on Mexico Begin (if no new deal is reached)Mexico’s 25% tariff delay ends—full tariffs could activate.
March 2025Mexico’s Retaliatory Measures ExpectedDetails pending—Mexico’s government has not yet disclosed specifics.

What This Means for Logistics Service Providers (LSPs)

Increased Customs Delays: Expect longer processing times for shipments crossing U.S.-Canada and U.S.-Mexico borders.

Supply Chain Reconfigurations: Companies may nearshore or diversify sourcing to avoid tariffed goods.

Rising Costs & Pricing Adjustments: Surcharges and higher transport costs likely for affected goods.


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📢 Stay tuned for the next update! TRADLINX is tracking these developments in real time. 🚢📊

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