

What Trump’s tariffs deadline has (not) achieved, with Dmitry Grozoubinski
15 snips Jul 11, 2025
Dmitry Grozoubinski, a former Australian trade negotiator and founder of Explain Trade, dives into the aftermath of Trump’s tariff threats. He critiques the effectiveness of these policies, labeling them as largely performative. The conversation explores the unpredictable nature of trade negotiations, particularly regarding countries like the UK and China. Dmitry offers insight into how smaller economies can navigate these challenges and the importance of cohesive international cooperation amidst growing trade uncertainties.
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Vibes-Based Tariff Policy
- Trump's tariff policy is unpredictable and based more on "vibes" than consistent principles.
- His administration issues threats with conflicting messages, creating uncertainty in trade relations.
Deals as Political Displays
- Trump seeks deals to demonstrate progress and assert dominance rather than legally binding agreements.
- These "deals" serve more for political storytelling and displays of submission than concrete trade commitments.
Flawed Negotiation Tactics
- Trump's trade tactics defy traditional negotiation norms by not allowing opponents to claim victory.
- This dominance-driven approach makes it harder to secure meaningful concessions from other countries.