#TrumpTariffs The **#TrumpTariffs** refer to the series of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration during his presidency (2017–2021) as part of his "America First" trade policy. These tariffs were primarily aimed at protecting U.S. industries, reducing trade deficits, and challenging what Trump viewed as unfair trade practices by other countries, particularly China.

### **Key Aspects of Trump's Tariffs:**

1. **Steel and Aluminum Tariffs (2018)**

- Imposed **25% on steel** and **10% on aluminum** imports (under **Section 232** of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, citing national security concerns).

- Initially targeted China but later expanded to allies like the EU, Canada, and Mexico before some exemptions were granted.

2. **China Tariffs (Trade War, 2018–2019)**

- Imposed under **Section 301** of the Trade Act of 1974, citing unfair practices like forced technology transfers and intellectual property theft.

- Multiple rounds of tariffs (List 1–4) covering **$370+ billion** in Chinese goods, with rates up to **25%**.

- China retaliated with tariffs on U.S. agricultural and industrial goods.

3. **Other Tariffs & Trade Actions**

- **Solar panels & washing machines** (2018, up to 50%).

- Threats of auto tariffs (never implemented).

- USMCA (replaced NAFTA) included stricter auto rules to incentivize North American production.

### **Impact & Controversy:**

✅ **Pros:**

- Some U.S. industries (steel, aluminum) saw short-term boosts.

- Pressured China on trade practices, leading to the **Phase One deal (2020)**.

- Shifted trade policy toward protectionism, resonating with Trump's base.

❌ **Cons:**

- **Higher costs for businesses & consumers** (studies showed tariffs cost U.S. households ~$1,300/year).

- **Retaliatory tariffs** hurt U.S. farmers (e.g., soybean exports to China dropped sharply).

- **Mixed economic impact**—some manufacturing jobs returned, but overall effect on trade deficit was limited.