Canada deploys additional resources to avoid Trump's tariffs

In a bid to convince the then-President-elect Donald Trump to reconsider his proposed tariffs, Canada committed to enhancing border security measures. This decision came during a meeting between Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Trump at Mar-a-Lago on a Friday evening in late 2016. Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc announced that Canada would procure additional drones, helicopters, and personnel to increase the visibility and muscularity of its border security. Meanwhile, Trump had been vocal on social media about imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian imports until Canada and Mexico took action against illegal migration and drug smuggling into the U.S. These tariffs were positioned as a means to address border security issues, reflecting Trump's administration's focus on law enforcement at the border. In light of this, Canadian officials expressed their intent to negotiate and present arguments against the tariffs, suggesting that many in the U.S. felt similarly. However, the situation led to mixed feelings among Canadian officials, as they acknowledged Trump’s firm belief in using tariffs as an economic tool. Yet, they remained hopeful that a diplomatic route could be pursued to avoid the tariffs, highlighting that Canada has supportive allies in the U.S. who share their concerns about the proposed tariffs. With heightened scrutiny on the U.S.-Canada border, the need for a collaborative approach to border security became increasingly apparent, particularly against the backdrop of rising illegal crossings over recent years. This strategic decision was made not only for economic reasons but also to foster a stronger bilateral relationship between Canada and the U.S., underscoring the ongoing complexities involving trade, border security, and immigration.