PM Trudeau announces new border security measures; Trump welcomes plan, suspends tariffs for 30 days
Ottawa [Canada], February 5: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced a comprehensive border security plan to combat the fentanyl trade, including deploying thousands of additional personnel, launching a precursor chemical detection unit, and establishing a new drug profiling center.
“Through Canada’s Border Plan, we’re deploying thousands more frontline personnel to the border, launching a precursor chemical detection unit, and building a new drug profiling centre to combat the fentanyl trade,” Trudeau posted on X on Tuesday.
Emphasizing the global nature of the crisis, he added, “This drug trade is a global, deadly issue — and Canada is tackling it head-on.”
Trump Backs Plan, Pauses Tariffs on Canadian Goods
Trudeau’s announcement follows US President Donald Trump’s statement on Monday, in which he confirmed Canada’s commitment to a USD 1.3 billion border security plan aimed at curbing the flow of fentanyl into the United States.
In return, Trump agreed to suspend tariffs on Canadian goods for 30 days to allow the plan’s implementation.
“Canada has agreed to ensure we have a secure Northern Border, and to finally end the deadly scourge of drugs like fentanyl that have been pouring into our country, killing hundreds of thousands of Americans, while destroying their families and communities all across our country,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Trump also referred to Trudeau’s commitment to reinforcing border security with new helicopters, advanced technology, and increased personnel.
“As President, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of ALL Americans, and I am doing just that. I am very pleased with this initial outcome, and the tariffs announced on Saturday will be paused for a 30-day period to see whether or not a final economic deal with Canada can be structured. FAIRNESS FOR ALL!” Trump added.
Fentanyl Seizures and the US-Canada Border
According to a report by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) seized 19.5 kilograms of fentanyl at the northern border in 2023, a significant contrast to the 9,570 kilograms seized at the southwestern border.
The new border security measures aim to tighten control over drug smuggling routes and enhance coordination between Canadian and US law enforcement agencies.
With both governments prioritizing fentanyl control, the next 30 days will be crucial in determining whether further bilateral agreements will be reached to strengthen security and trade relations.