#TrumpTariffs Professionals have mixed opinions on the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. Some experts believe that these tariffs can be used as a negotiating tool to obtain favorable trade agreements, as evidenced by the phase one trade agreement between the United States and China. However, others fear that these tariffs could lead to negative consequences, such as increased costs for consumers and businesses, as well as disruptions in global supply chains.

Professionals identify three main uses of tariffs by the Trump administration ¹:

- *Negotiating tool*: Tariffs are used to exert pressure on trading partners during negotiations in order to obtain favorable concessions.

- *Punitive tool*: Tariffs are used to penalize countries that engage in unfair trade practices or fail to adhere to existing trade agreements.

- *Macroeconomic tool*: Tariffs are used to protect domestic industries, reduce trade deficits, and increase customs revenues.

Some experts also highlight that the Trump administration's use of laws such as Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 and Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to impose tariffs is an unprecedented approach that could have long-term implications for global trade.