Trump Tweets on Tariffs, Winning Is 'Easy'
President Donald Trump responded Friday to strong criticisms that his pursuit of punitive trade measures will trigger a trade war with a tweet arguing that sometimes, “trade wars are good.”
Following recent decisions to slap tariffs on imported washing machines, solar panels, and aluminum foil, the president announced Thursday the U.S. will place tariffs of 25 percent on foreign-made steel and 10 percent on aluminum.
This move was set in motion by a Department of Commerce report released last month that recommended restricting imports of foreign steel and aluminum to protect national security.
In the wake of the president’s decision, many observers and analysts on both sides of the aisle expressed concern, noting that such an aggressive move could start a trade war with countries around the world.
Trump responded that trade wars are sometimes necessary to defend American interests.
“When a country (USA) is losing many billions of dollars on trade with virtually every country it does business with, trade wars are good, and easy to win,” the president wrote.
“Example, when we are down $100 billion with a certain country and they get cute, don’t trade anymore-we win big. It’s easy!”
“We must protect our country and our workers. Our steel industry is in bad shape. IF YOU DON’T HAVE STEEL, YOU DON’T HAVE A COUNTRY!” he added.
China has been particularly outspoken in its complaints.
“All countries steel and aluminum industries are facing difficulties,” Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Friday. “China urges the United States to show restraint in using protective trade measures, respect multilateral trade rules, and make a positive contribution to international trade order.”
Notably, China has signaled an intent to retaliate. America’s “unreasonable and excessive use of trade remedy measures will not help revitalize relevant industries at home,” Hua said Thursday.
“Rather, it will affect its employment and jeopardize the welfare of American consumers.” In the past, presidents have tried to use tariffs to protect American industries, and the results were less than desirable.
“China will take necessary measures to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests,” the spokeswoman added.
While the Chinese government has been critical, China’s metal industries were reportedly unimpressed by the president’s “stupid trade protection measure,” largely dismissing the move.
A version of this article appeared on The Daily Caller News Foundation website.
Truth and Accuracy
We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Read our editorial standards.
Advertise with The Western Journal and reach millions of highly engaged readers, while supporting our work. Advertise Today.
