Former President Donald Trump’s tariff policy — famously dubbed the “Trump Tariffs” — marked a significant shift in U.S. trade relations, especially with China. Starting in 2018, Trump imposed steep tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars' worth of imported goods, citing unfair trade practices, intellectual property theft, and massive trade deficits. His administration levied tariffs on steel, aluminum, and a wide array of Chinese goods, sparking a tit-for-tat trade war.
The goal was to revive American manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign imports. While some industries benefited, others suffered from higher costs and retaliatory measures. Farmers, in particular, were hit hard, prompting the government to offer billions in subsidies to offset losses. Critics argue that the tariffs hurt U.S. consumers and businesses more than they pressured China.
Despite the controversy, Trump continues to champion tariffs as a key tool of economic nationalism. In his 2024 campaign, he proposed a 10% across-the-board tariff on all imports, signaling a potential return to protectionist trade policies if re-elected.