Canada Tightens Border Policy Amid Trump Tariff Threat

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Dec 18, 2024

Above: The Rainbow Bridge border crossing in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada on Nov. 22, 2023. Image copyright: Mert Alper/Contributor/Anadolu via Getty Imagesstory last updated 3 days ago

The Facts

Canada has proposed a new 5-pillared, CA$1.3B ($913M) plan to bolster its border security with the US following Pres.-elect Donald Trump's threat to implement 25% tariffs on imports from Canada if Ottawa can't curb illegal migrants and drug trafficking.
Canada's government said Monday that the funds would be directed towards Public Safety Canada, the Canada Border Services Agency, the Communications Security Establishment, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police over six years.

The Spin

Narrative A

Trump's border concerns stem from the dramatic rise in illegal crossings from Canada, with arrests skyrocketing from just over 2K in 2022 to more than 23K in 2024. Primarily driven by Indian nationals using Canada as a migration pathway, these crossings pose significant national security risks. His proposed 25% tariff on Canadian imports reflects a decisive stance to deter unauthorized entry and protect US border integrity.

Narrative B

Trudeau's mismanaged immigration policies have contributed to the migrant crisis in the US. His government's lax approach, particularly toward foreign nationals using Canada as a migration conduit, has strained US-Canada relations. To salvage the situation, Trudeau must swiftly implement stricter border controls, reduce temporary work permits, and demonstrate a serious commitment to stemming unauthorized entries.