Donald Trump declared April to Liberation Day. He issued across-the-board tariffs of 10% on all nations. Opponents argue that tariffs will hurt the economy and the stock market has reacted negatively. But in many cases other countries are imposing higher tariffs on our goods and services then we impose upon them. Trump is calling for reciprocity, or equal treatment for goods and services. He says the enacting fair trade policies “will restore our workforce, rebuild our economy, and finally put America First.” Many agree with the sentiments, particularly US cattle farmers who’ve been boxed out of large markets like Great Britain and Argentina. Free trade has increased competition, lowered prices for consumers, and energized economies around the globe. But fair trade should be the baseline.
