Trump Threatens 200% Tariff on John Deere Imports If Manufacturing Moves to Mexico

In a bold move, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump announced on Monday that he would impose a 200% tariff on John Deere imports if the agricultural equipment company proceeds with its plans to relocate production to Mexico. Trump made this declaration at an event focused on agriculture and China in western Pennsylvania, expressing his concern over John Deere's intentions to shift a significant portion of its manufacturing operations to Mexico.

He emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, "I am just notifying John Deere right now that if you do that, we are putting a 200% tariff on everything that you want to sell into the United States."

John Deere's Controversial Decision

The announcement comes in the wake of John Deere's decision to lay off employees in the American Midwest while expanding its production capacity in Mexico. This move has raised eyebrows and garnered discontent among workers and political leaders, who view it as detrimental to American jobs and industries

Trump's Stance on Tariffs

While Trump has previously threatened automakers with 200% tariffs for relocating their production to Mexico, this marks the first time he has directed such a warning towards an agricultural equipment manufacturer. The severity of the proposed tariff underscores Trump's commitment to protecting American jobs and industries from foreign competition.

The 200% tariff on John Deere imports, if implemented, could significantly impact the company's operations and its ability to access the United States market. The repercussions of such a move would undoubtedly reverberate through the agricultural equipment sector and beyond.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how John Deere will respond to Trump's formidable threat and whether it will reconsider its plans to absent from the U.S. manufacturing landscape.