Government and Politics
March 4, 2025
From: California Governor Gavin NewsomSACRAMENTO - Governor Gavin Newsom today issued the following statement regarding the Trump Administration’s action to impose tariffs on goods from Canada, Mexico, and China:
“Tariffs are nothing more than a tax on hardworking American families - driving up the cost of groceries, cars, and essential goods.” - Governor Gavin Newsom
California is the fifth-largest economy in the world and is the country’s largest importer and second-largest exporter. The state relies heavily on trade with Mexico, Canada, and China, particularly for manufactured goods and agricultural products that employ Californians across the state. Over 40% of California imports come from Mexico, Canada, and China. Imports from these countries were $203.3 billion of the total $491.5 billion California imported in 2024.
Retaliatory tariffs will impact California businesses and exporters. Mexico, Canada, and China are California’s top 3 export destinations. Tariffs also hurt builders. The tariffs will affect access to important construction materials critical to rebuilding after the Los Angeles fires.