On April 9, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump shook up the global trade scene with a bold move. In a sudden policy shift, he announced a 90-day pause on higher tariffs, locking in a flat 10% rate until July. But here’s the kicker: for China, the stakes are sky-high with a 145% tariff on all imports to the U.S. 💥
Professor Michael Dunford from the University of Sussex weighed in on the drama. He compared today’s shock move to Nixon's 1971 shake-up, suggesting the U.S. is reverting to its old hegemonic ways. According to Dunford, the U.S. is battling massive trade deficits and soaring short-term debt by shifting its manufacturing offshore. This approach, he warns, isn’t just about protectionism—it’s a restructuring that could ripple through the global economy.
The fallout may already be sparking new alliances. Countries like South Korea, Japan, and China are stepping up efforts to deepen trade ties among themselves, with discussions extending to regional groups such as ASEAN, RCEP, and even forums like the BRICS. For young professionals and tech-savvy trendsetters across South and Southeast Asia, these moves highlight a dynamic period where adapting to new economic realities could unlock fresh opportunities. 🤔
As global trade shifts gears, one question remains: will these drastic policies pave the way for a more balanced international system, or could they trigger unexpected challenges for the world economy?
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
