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By BoTefu | California Black Media
Gov. Gavin Newsom has condemned the Trump Administration’s decision to impose tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China, warning that the move will hurt American consumers and businesses.
“Tariffs are nothing more than a tax on hardworking American families — driving up the cost of groceries, cars, and essential goods,” Newsom said in a statement.
California, the world’s fifth-largest economy, is particularly vulnerable to trade disruptions. The state relies heavily on imports and exports, with Mexico, Canada, and China accounting for over 40% of its imports. In 2024 alone, California imported $203.3 billion worth of goods from these three nations, out of a total $491.5 billion in imports.
Beyond increasing consumer prices, Newsom warned that retaliatory tariffs from these countries would directly impact California businesses, farmers, and exporters. Mexico, Canada, and China are the state’s top three export destinations, and new trade restrictions could significantly affect key industries, including agriculture and manufacturing.
The Governor also highlighted the potential impact on the construction sector, noting that tariffs could raise costs for materials essential to rebuilding efforts following the devastating firestorms in Los Angeles County.
