To avert further tariffs threatened by President Trump, Canada appointed Kevin Brosseau as its “fentanyl czar” on Tuesday. This appointment fulfills a key element of a deal struck to address concerns about the flow of fentanyl across the border.
Mr. Brosseau, a veteran of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with extensive experience in law enforcement, including serving as deputy commissioner and commanding officer in Manitoba, will collaborate with the U.S. to combat the fentanyl trade. His role focuses on detecting, disrupting, and dismantling fentanyl trafficking networks. He most recently served as Deputy National Security and Intelligence Advisor to Prime Minister Trudeau.
Prime Minister Trudeau highlighted Mr. Brosseau’s experience in handling sensitive security matters and tackling drug trafficking and organized crime, emphasizing his value to this crucial position.
This appointment follows President Trump’s threat of a 25% tariff increase on Canadian imports due to concerns about illegal immigration and drug smuggling, including fentanyl. A 30-day tariff reprieve was granted to allow Canada to demonstrate its commitment to border security.
Beyond the fentanyl czar appointment, Canada announced a $1.3 billion border security plan encompassing Black Hawk helicopters, drones, mobile surveillance towers, and almost 10,000 frontline personnel. Organized crime cartels will also be designated as terrorist entities to strengthen criminal investigations.
Further measures include enhanced detection capabilities at border entry points and the establishment of a Canadian Drug Analysis Center to analyze seized drugs and trace their origins.
Prime Minister Trudeau acknowledged that while Canadian fentanyl interceptions at the U.S. border are minimal (less than 1%), even small quantities are unacceptable, reiterating a commitment to eliminating fentanyl production and prosecuting those involved.
Although significantly less fentanyl is seized at the U.S.-Canada border compared to the U.S.-Mexico border (43 pounds versus 21,100 pounds in the last fiscal year), the Canadian government is taking decisive action.