Trump trade policy 2.0
trade-wars
A chronicle of the administration’s early trade moves since January 21 — investigations before sweeping tariffs, mixed signals on China, and internal debate over a universal tariff.
This post traces the administration’s trade actions from January 21, 2025 onward: an initial focus on investigations into trade deficits and unfair practices rather than immediate sweeping tariffs, threats of 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico (with a possible oil exemption), a comparatively softer line on China with a proposed 10% tariff tied to fentanyl, and a brief tariff threat against Colombia that was quickly withdrawn. It also flags an internal administration split — Treasury Secretary Bessent floated phasing in a universal tariff at 2.5% a month, while Trump pushed for larger, faster increases.
Originally published on Substack, March 4, 2025.