
ChinaTalk
Tarriffs, taxes, and trade: Doug Irwin on ChinaEconTalk
Sep 12, 2019
Doug Irwin, the John French Professor of Economics at Dartmouth College and author of Clashing Over Commerce, dives deep into the history of U.S. trade policy. He discusses the flawed logic of the Tariff Act of 1930 and draws captivating parallels to today’s trade debates. Irwin also reveals fascinating examples of 'tariff engineering,' like how Honda cleverly navigated motorcycle tariffs with minor modifications. The conversation uncovers the evolution of trade policies, shedding light on their implications for modern economic dynamics.
01:08:11
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Quick takeaways
- US trade policy has evolved from revenue to restriction, emphasizing reciprocity in international agreements.
- Tariff engineering, like adjusting motorcycle displacement to lower tariffs, showcases creative ways to avoid trade restrictions.
Deep dives
Historical Context of American Trade Policy
American trade policy has been a subject of fierce political debates throughout history. From the challenges faced by enlightened statesmen in aligning economic interests with the public good to the evolution of trade policies over time, such as the shift from revenue to restriction in the 1860s, these dynamics have shaped the trajectory of US trade agreements.
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