In a world increasingly shaped by geopolitical tension and economic uncertainty, the United States has once again turned to tariffs as a strategic tool for asserting its economic sovereignty and recalibrating global trade relationships. While the move has attracted both praise and criticism, it raises an important question: Do these tariff initiatives make economic sense—or are they a misstep in an interconnected global marketplace?
As a digital-era entrepreneur and global business consultant, I believe it’s essential to examine both sides of the coin—because, in the real world, truth often lies somewhere in the middle. I believe too many people are viewing this Tariff War triggered Trump from the prism of whether they like Trump or dislike Trump .
This should not be about the person who is current president of the USA but about the positives or positives for all countries affected
So I will look at both sides of this and discuss 7 reasons why the tariffs make sense and 7 reasons why it may not make sense from other’s’ perspective and end with a closing comments
*7 Reasons the Tariff Initiative Makes Sense*
1. Protecting Domestic Industries: Tariffs offer a buffer for American industries struggling to compete with subsidized or cheap foreign imports. By leveling the playing field, they give local manufacturers a fighting chance.
2. Reducing Trade Deficits: America’s long-standing trade imbalances have drained local industries. Tariffs discourage overreliance on imports and encourage domestic consumption, ideally leading to a healthier balance of trade.
3. Generating Government Revenue: Beyond strategy, tariffs bring in substantial income. That revenue can fund infrastructure, debt reduction, and social programs without raising direct taxes on citizens.
4. Promoting Fair Trade: Many countries engage in dumping, forced tech transfers, or currency manipulation.
Tariffs serve as an enforcement tool to demand fairer practices.
5. Safeguarding National Security: Critical industries—such as steel, semiconductors, and energy—are vital to America’s security. Tariffs help reduce dependence on nations that may not always be reliable partners.
6. Boosting Domestic Employment: When imports become costlier, demand shifts toward local alternatives. This often means more jobs, particularly in manufacturing and supply chain sectors.
7. Strengthening America’s Negotiation Power: Tariffs create leverage. They send a clear message to trading partners that America will prioritize reciprocal trade, not just open access.
*7 Reasons the Tariff Strategy Might Backfire*
1. Increased Prices for Consumers: The most immediate impact is on the average American wallet. Tariffs raise prices on imported goods—from electronics to groceries—leading to inflation and decreased consumer purchasing power.
2. Foreign Retaliation: Trade is a two-way street. Other countries are already responding with their own tariffs, targeting American farmers, tech companies, and manufacturers.
3. Supply Chain Disruptions: Modern business thrives on global supply chains. Tariffs disrupt these, increase production costs, and slow down innovation.
4. No Guaranteed Trade Deficit Fix: Ironically, many economists agree that tariffs don’t necessarily fix trade deficits. They may shift trade patterns without actually reducing overall imbalance.
5. Slower Economic Growth: Tariffs can shrink international investment and reduce U.S. export competitiveness—both of which are headwinds to GDP growth.
6. Diplomatic Tensions: Trade wars damage international relationships. Key allies may distance themselves from U.S. leadership on the global stage.
7. Deviation from Free Market Principles: America has long stood for open, competitive markets. Tariffs, by design, interfere with those market dynamics—raising questions about long-term consistency.
*Conclusion: A Double-Edged Sword Worth Wielding Carefully*
Tariffs are neither a cure-all nor a curse. They are tools—powerful, controversial, and deeply consequential. Used wisely, they can reset unfair trade terms, protect national interests, and spark domestic revival. Used recklessly, they can hurt consumers, strain alliances, and hamper economic growth.
Ultimately, the success or failure of the U.S. tariff initiative depends not just on the policy itself—but on how it is implemented, negotiated, and timed.
In an era where economic strategy is national strategy, I believe tariffs may just be the bold medicine America needs—if administered with precision. Wherever any of us may stand on the Tarriff War deliberately triggered by Trump, I beleive the Tarriff regime as presently constituted globally is unfair to USA and in the end only a fairer deal for USA will bring lasting peace on the world trade… at least while Donald Trump still lives in the White House
President Donald Trump did not just start complaining about the way tariffs have been used globally against USA. He has been saying so for over 40 years, and it’s not likely he will surrender and withdraw all his new tariffs against the world even if it’s not working to address the imbalance he is complaining about. He is too stubborn and oblivious to concede defeat if the world does not budge.
So, the world will either sit down with him and renegotiate or we all might as well get ready for the bitter fallout for us all.
Ope Banwo
Ceo, Mobisoft360 Inc
