Because nothing says “national security” like charging more for metal
In a move that surprises absolutely no one (well, maybe steel and aluminum importers), President Donald Trump has decided that the best way to protect the United States is… to raise taxes on these metals. From 25% to 50%! Because, of course, if something works wrong, the solution is to make it twice as big. Or was it twice as expensive? We no longer remember.
According to the enlightened decree signed by the president, this measure will come into force tomorrow, because why give the markets time to adapt? Better a good scare at midnight. Of course, with one exception: the United Kingdom, which will be able to continue paying only 25%. The reason? An agreement signed in May. And Mexico and Canada? Ha. Not even mentioned. After all, what are a few trading partners compared to glorious protectionism?
The justification: just because
Trump, in his infinite wisdom, assures that this increase is “necessary and appropriate” because, according to the Department of Commerce, American industry continues to be unable to meet the demand for national defense. Of course, because in three years there has not been enough time for the factories to get their act together. Or perhaps the problem is that, despite previous tariffs, exporters continue to “flood the market with cheap products.” How evil! How dare they sell things at a good price?
And in case anyone thought this was an exaggeration, Trump himself warned that The United Kingdom could lose its special treatment if it does not comply with the “agreed commitments.” Translation: if you don’t do what I say, I’ll raise your tariff too. Pure and simple diplomacy.
Meanwhile, a group of Democratic companies and states continue to fight in court against other Trump tariff measures, using a 1977 law. Because, apparently, in this administration, trade emergencies are the daily bread.
So get ready, dear consumers: steel and aluminum products could become more expensive. But hey, at least America will be “safer.” Or so says the man who signs the decrees.
Did you like this sarcastic analysis of Trump’s business decisions? Share it on your social networks and don’t miss any more equally ironic (but equally informative) content.
