Earlier today, the White House announced a partial pause on tariffs for imports from Canada that are in compliance with the agreement. This announcement almost coincides with a historic low in illegal crossings at the Canada-U.S. border. The announcement, made on April 22, 2025, at 3:09 PM, reflects the administration’s ongoing efforts to manage trade relations and border security.
As of March 2025, the administration has levied first-within-market tariffs. They are currently applying a 25 percent tariff to imports that do not comply. This measure addresses the rising tide of people and fentanyl pouring over our border. U.S. officials take this problem very seriously. To back import regulations, the government has levied anti-circumvention tariffs on non-compliant goods. On top of that, they’ve imposed a 10 percent energy and potash import surcharge.
CUSMA establishes the bar for imports in compliance. Only days after imposing the first tariffs, the president chose to let these goods off the hook—at least in part. This timely response highlights the administration’s agile approach in adapting trade policies while addressing border security concerns.
The partial pause in duties is directly linked to the notable decrease in illegal crossings from Canada into the United States. Reports indicate that fewer individuals are attempting to cross the border illegally, a change that may have influenced the administration’s decision to adjust tariff policies. By easing restrictions on compliant imports, the White House aims to foster better trade relations while still maintaining a firm stance on illegal activities at the border.
The last update regarding this partial pause was issued shortly after the initial announcement, at 3:13 PM on the same day. This new rapid communication is yet another sign of the administration’s evolving commitment to openness and receptiveness in their trade policy-making process.
