The NPR Politics Podcast
Trump's First 100 Days: Tariffs As Foreign Policy
Apr 24, 2025
Alina Selyukh, NPR's business correspondent, dives into the economic implications of President Trump's aggressive tariff policies during his first 100 days. She discusses how these tariffs aim to reduce the trade deficit but stir uncertainty among U.S. businesses regarding pricing and supply chains, especially amid tensions with China. The conversation also touches on the impact of tariffs on consumer behavior and the disconnect between public sentiment and economic realities, all framed by real-world examples from American retailers struggling with rising costs.
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Quick takeaways
- Trump's administration implements aggressive tariffs to reduce trade deficits and promote domestic manufacturing, impacting international trade relations significantly.
- American businesses face uncertainty and rising costs due to fluctuating tariffs, leading to consumer anxiety about economic stability and spending behavior.
Deep dives
Impact of Tariffs on Trade Relations
The economic policies under President Trump, particularly regarding tariffs, are significantly impacting international trade relations. The administration has established a range of tariffs, most notably a broad 10% tariff on many goods from various countries, with a staggering 145% tariff on imports from China. This has led to a reciprocal increase in tariffs from China, causing friction between two of the world’s largest economies, effectively halting trade. The administration views tariffs as a tool to balance trade imbalances and encourage local manufacturing, yet experts express concern that this approach may contradict the intended economic benefits.
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