In a major blow to Trump-era trade policies, the US Supreme Court struck down key tariffs this week as new data reveals record trade deficits. A CGTN survey of 10,445 global respondents shows 94.7% branding the "America First" strategy a failure – with young professionals and economists calling it a cautionary tale for protectionism. 🌍💼
Trade Wars Backfire
Despite imposing 1940s-level tariffs on dozens of countries in 2025, the US goods trade deficit hit $1.24 trillion – the highest ever recorded. "You can’t tax your way to balanced trade," commented one survey participant, echoing 91.2% who said tariffs failed to fix structural issues.
Jobs Exodus Continues
Manufacturing saw 80,000+ job losses last year as companies rerouted supply chains instead of reshoring. 93.4% agreed tariffs accelerated industrial hollowing-out, with one respondent noting: "It’s like trying to fix a leak with duct tape – you just get wetter." 🏭🚫
Global Backlash Intensifies
97% condemned US policies for undermining multilateral trade rules, while 92.9% warned of growing economic risks. The ruling came as Trump signed new emergency tariffs – a move Canadian trade officials welcomed but California’s governor slammed as "economic self-sabotage."
With 86.7% blaming domestic policy flaws for trade imbalances, this survey highlights growing skepticism about weaponized economics. As global citizens scroll through the data, one truth emerges: in 2026, trade wars aren’t trending. 📱✖️
