The move has prompted backlash from Trump’s political opponents, with Democrats accusing his administration of politicizing economic data, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer blasting him as a “bad leader” who “shoots the messenger” over numbers he doesn’t like.

The taxes on imports could raise prices on consumer goods, experts worry, but the economy has so far shaken off the potential impact.

The Canadian prime minister has said he is "disappointed" by President Donald Trump's move to increase certain tariffs on Canada.