One Decision Will America’s Tariff Policy Backfire?
Oct 9, 2025
Pascal Lamy, the former Director-General of the World Trade Organization, dives into the complexities of tariffs and globalization. He argues that America’s tariff policy could backfire and harm the U.S. first. Lamy also highlights how the rule of force is now overshadowing trade, and he warns that growing threats to democracy might destabilize Europe. He emphasizes the need for the EU to integrate politically and defense-wise to ensure its survival against shifting global powers.
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Tariffs Likely To Backfire On U.S.
- Pascal Lamy predicts U.S. tariffs will primarily harm the U.S. economy first and foremost.
- He warns global damage will follow if other countries let protectionism spread.
Geopolitics Replacing Geoeconomics
- Lamy argues geopolitics have regained dominance over geoeconomics, reversing recent decades' balance.
- He expects globalization to morph rather than collapse under new political pressures.
China's Rise And U.S. Democratic Drift
- China is now a major world power with a state-led market economy and an authoritarian political system.
- Lamy worries a U.S. drift away from democratic standards would pose a major problem for Europe.