China, Canada, Mexico hit back against Trump tariffs

As expected, the three countries Canada, Mexico, and China that are facing the first set of Trump tariffs have vowed to retaliate.

Ahn Sung-jin covers their response in detail.

Following the imposition of tariffs by the U.S., China stated that it would challenge Trump's move.

"The unilateral imposition of tariffs by the U.S. seriously violates World Trade Organization rules, which is not conducive to solving its own problems, but disrupts normal China-U.S. economic and trade cooperation."

In a written statement from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, China expressed strong discontent and added that not only will it file a lawsuit with the World Trade Organization, but it will take other countermeasures to safeguard its rights and interests.

Though nothing has been specifically stated, some of its retaliation measures may be hardening export controls on rare earth metals or targeting U.S. companies with interests in China.

There's also speculation that China may impose a 10 percent tariff on U.S. imports after Tuesday, when Trump's new sanctions will be put in place.

Mexico and Canada have also vowed immediate retaliatory measures against the U.S. for tariffs imposed on both countries.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Saturday posted on X that she has informed her economy minister to implement what she called "plan B" which includes tariff and non-tariff measures in defense of Mexico's interests.

"This measure, of 25% tariffs, has effects for both countries but it has very serious effects for the economy of the United States as it is going to greatly increase the costs of all products that are exported from Mexico to the United States."

Canada responded with a 25 percent tariff on American goods, including beer and wine starting Tuesday, while Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also urged Canadians to restrict travel to the U.S. and to boycott U.S. products, adding that Americans will feel pain from Trump's tariffs.

"This is a choice that yes, will harm Canadians but beyond that, it will have real consequences for you, the American people."

A spokesman for the European Commission said the EU regrets U.S. tariffs against neighboring countries and China and vowed to respond strongly to unfair levies levelled against the bloc.

Ahn Sung-jin, Arirang News.