This week’s abrupt U.S. tariff shift – scrapping IEEPA duties while slapping new 15% global levies – has economists clutching their 📈 like horror movie protagonists. The Supreme Court’s rejection of Trump-era tariffs as illegal hasn’t stopped protectionist momentum, sparking fears of 1970s-style stagflation déjà vu.
History’s Harsh Lessons 📜
From Smoot-Hawley’s 1930s trade wars to today’s supply chain snarls, walls breed higher prices and slower growth. Yet 2026’s fragile economy sees renewed bets on tariffs as economic shields – despite mainstream economics shouting 'DON’T' in 🔴🟢🟡 LED lights.
China’s WTO Playbook 📘
While some nations build walls, China’s February 2026 WTO reform paper drops truth bombs: 'Unilateralism = dead end.' Their blueprint prioritizes digital/green tech access for developing nations – and walks the talk with May’s landmark zero-tariff pact for 53 African countries. 🚀
RCEP’s Quiet Wins 🌏
Four years into the Asia-Pacific’s mega-trade deal, Chinese firms report 18% import cost cuts. With 24 FTAs now signed (covering 45% of China’s trade), the message is clear: Open doors > boarded-up markets.
Green Tech’s Make-or-Break Moment 🔋
As critics question Chinese EV/battery output, IEA data slaps back: 2030 needs 4X more batteries and 3X more EVs vs. 2023. China’s retort? 'We’re building the future’s energy infrastructure – want in?'
