Trump’s Tariff Tactics: Who Pays the Price?

U.S. President Donald Trump’s frequent use of tariffs as a political tool has sparked debate about their real-world impact. According to Alejandro Reyes, a scholar at the Asia Society Hong Kong Center, these tariffs “essentially attack American consumers” instead of effectively penalizing other nations.

Reyes, analyzing Trump’s strategy, noted that tariffs were framed as a win for U.S. interests but often overlooked their domestic costs. “He sold this idea to the American people as strength,” Reyes explained, “but the math doesn’t add up for families paying higher prices.”

While Trump championed tariffs as a key foreign policy weapon, critics argue the approach risks long-term economic stability. Reyes summed it up bluntly: “What happens after him? He probably doesn’t care all that much.” The debate highlights a recurring theme in global politics—short-term wins vs. lasting consequences.

Reference(s):

Expert: Trump essentially sold the tariffs to the American people

cgtn.com