White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed on Wednesday that the Trump administration has announced a one-month carveout on tariffs for automakers importing vehicles from Canada and Mexico.
Temporary Exemption for Auto Industry
During a press briefing, Leavitt stated: “We spoke with the big three auto dealers. We will give a one-month exemption on any autos coming through [the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement] USMCA.”
She clarified that while reciprocal tariffs will take effect on April 2, the exemption was granted at the request of automakers to ensure they are not at an economic disadvantage.
Following a meeting between Trump and auto executives, the exemption applies to Ford Motor Co., General Motors Co., and Stellantis NV.
25% Tariffs Imposed on Canada and Mexico
The move comes after the Trump administration imposed 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico on Tuesday, citing their failure to implement reforms to combat the fentanyl crisis.
Both countries are reportedly considering retaliatory tariffs in response.
Trump Blames Trudeau for U.S. Border Issues
Former President Donald Trump also revealed that he had spoken with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, blaming him for weak border policies that have allegedly allowed fentanyl and illegal immigrants to flood into the United States.
“For anyone interested, I also told Governor Justin Trudeau of Canada that he largely caused the problems we have with them because of his Weak Border Policies, which allowed tremendous amounts of Fentanyl, and Illegal Aliens, to pour into the United States,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
“These Policies are responsible for the death of many people!”
