US tariffs more political theater than trade policy
Three takes coming from authors from the US, Australia, and Canada.
On Monday Trump set new August 1 deadline and warned 14 countries, including Japan and South Korea, South Africa and 11 others of 25% - to 40% tariffs that would be imposed on them if they didn't agree to US demands.
Over the past months, in response to US tariff threats, some countries have capitulated, others have remained steadfast, and many have adopted a wait-and-see strategy.
What factors have influenced these differing responses? And what lessons can the world take away from the constan US policy flip-flops?
The Global Times invited me, an American, Warwick Powell an Australian, and Arnold August, a Canadian author and journalist to give their views.
US tariffs more political theater than trade policy
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202507/1337901.shtml
The mixed reactions from countries reflect not just economic calculations but also strategic patience and diplomatic balancing.