Canada is set to implement new security measures along its border with the United States, including enhanced surveillance and a joint “strike force” aimed at combating transnational organized crime. These steps come after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump threatened to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian goods if the country doesn’t secure its shared border against illegal immigration and the flow of illicit drugs.
Economists warn that such tariffs could significantly impact Canada’s economy.
In announcing the plan, Canadian Finance and Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc revealed that the federal government will invest 1.3 billion Canadian dollars in the initiative. LeBlanc emphasized that the new measures would protect Canada’s border against the flow of illegal drugs and irregular migration, while also ensuring the free movement of people and goods, which is vital for North American prosperity.
The new plan directly addresses concerns raised by Trump in recent weeks regarding the influx of fentanyl and undocumented immigrants into the U.S. While border crossings between the U.S. and Canada are lower compared to the southern border, U.S. Border Patrol data still reflects significant encounters with immigrants, along with the seizure of fentanyl. Mexico is also facing a similar 25% tariff threat from Trump.
