Trump’s Tariffs, revisited

Structure, Effects and Geopolitics

Published: January 8, 2026

This is a Pro report, analysing the impact and geopolitical significance of a major event.

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Why did Donald Trump set new import tariffs?

  • Bringing manufacturing to the US: encouraging local companies to produce more in the country.

 

  • Protecting local industries:​encouraging consumers to buy more US-made goods by making them relatively cheaper.

 

  • Cutting the trade deficit: reducing the gap between what the US imports and what it exports.

 

  • Increasing state revenue: the US government earns money from higher import tariffs, especially short-term.

 

  • Diplomatic pressure: the US uses (the threat of) tariffs against its trade partners to get political favours.

Continue reading for:

  • Effects on countries and industries

  • How are they responding?

  • Diplomatic use of tariffs

  • Infographic: effects on prices and trade 

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