#TrumpTariffs *Debate sobre #TrumpTariffs*

*Moderator:* Good afternoon, today we will discuss the tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. On the panel, we have two experts: Ana, an economist in favor of free trade, and Carlos, a specialist in U.S. trade policy. Let’s begin with our opening positions. Ana, would you like to start?

*Ana:* Thank you. Trump's tariffs were a colossal mistake. They caused losses to American consumers and businesses, increased the prices of basic goods, and failed to achieve the policy objectives they intended. The global economy is interconnected, and unilateral measures like these only provoke retaliation and hinder growth.

*Carlos:* I understand Ana's point, but I believe the tariffs were necessary to correct historical trade imbalances. The United States was facing enormous trade deficits, especially with China, and Trump sought to level the playing field. Furthermore, the tariffs pressured other countries to renegotiate fairer trade agreements.

*Moderator:* Interesting. Ana, how do you respond to the idea that the tariffs helped correct trade imbalances?

*Ana:* While it is true that there were imbalances, the tariffs were not the appropriate solution. Instead of protecting specific industries, they distorted the economy. It is a difficult balance. Consumers did face higher prices, but the goal was to protect jobs and promote domestic production. Moreover, part of the tariff revenue was invested in programs that benefited

only that it is crucial to learn from this experience and focus on more collaborative trade policies based on multilateral agreements.

And it is also important to recognize that, although imperfect, Trump's tariff policy reflected a genuine concern about fairness in international trade.