Canada appoints former Mountie as fentanyl czar as part of deal with Trump to avoid 25% tariffs

Canada has appointed Kevin Brosseau, a former deputy commissioner with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, as its fentanyl czar to combat the production and distribution of the dangerous synthetic opioid. This appointment is part of an agreement with the United States to avoid the imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods. n early February 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on Canadian imports due to concerns over the flow of illegal migrants and drugs, including fentanyl, into the U.S. In response, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau agreed to a 30-day postponement of the proposed tariffs and committed to appointing a fentanyl czar, listing cartels as terrorists, enhancing border security, and launching a joint strike force with the U.S. to combat organized crime and fentanyl trafficking.

The appointment of Kevin Brosseau is a significant step in fulfilling Canada’s commitments under this agreement, aiming to strengthen efforts against fentanyl smuggling and production.Canada Appoints Fentanyl Czar Amid U.S. Tariff Negotiations