Trump Declares Tariff War with Colombia: What This Means for the Future of US Trade

President Donald Trump has introduced significant tariffs and sanctions against Colombia. This is in response to Colombia’s refusal to accept deportation flights for migrants. Colombia reacted by imposing a 25% tariff on U.S. goods.

In his first week back in office, Trump announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on Colombian products. This could increase to 50% in just a week. His authority to do this is unclear since Colombia has a free-trade agreement with the United States.

Trump is also revoking visas for certain Colombian officials and increasing scrutiny of Colombian travelers at airports. He expressed his frustrations on his social media platform, saying, “These measures are just the beginning.” His goal is to hold Colombia accountable for what he sees as a failure to manage deportations properly.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro, a former leftist guerrilla, responded to Trump’s threats by raising tariffs on U.S. imports to 25%. He publicly declared, “You will never dominate us,” showcasing a strong stance against Trump’s actions.

This conflict comes as Trump aims to deport undocumented immigrants more swiftly, while Petro, who took office in 2022, resists these efforts. He asserted that the U.S. should not treat Colombian migrants as criminals and stated he would not allow U.S. planes carrying deported Colombians to land.

Petro also offered to send Colombia’s presidential plane to help transport migrants back to the U.S. with respect. He mentioned allowing civilian flights to land as long as the deportees are not treated poorly.

Concerns are rising within Colombia, with critics arguing that Petro is irresponsibly provoking Trump. Former President Ivan Duque condemned Petro’s refusal to accept deported migrants, emphasizing the potential economic damage from U.S. sanctions.

Trump’s deportation policies could set off conflicts with Latin American governments, particularly as many undocumented migrants come from this region. Brazil, for instance, expressed outrage over the treatment of its citizens being deported. Reports suggest that Brazilian migrants were handcuffed during their flight home, raising issues about their human rights.

Some of those deported spoke out, describing their experience as inhumane. One man recounted that they weren’t given water and had limited access to bathroom breaks during the flight.

Several countries have expressed readiness to welcome home their citizens. Mexico announced plans to open shelters for those returning, aiming to support them as they reintegrate. Honduras is launching a program to provide financial aid and job opportunities for its returnees.