The Absurdity of Trump’s Tariff Policy: Punishing Americans, Not Foreign Nations
by Germanico Vaca
Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 25% tariff on Colombian goods, under
the guise of "punishing" Colombia for not accepting deported
individuals, is a textbook example of misguided policy-making. Let me spell it
out for you:
1. Who Actually Pays Tariffs?
Contrary to Trump’s rhetoric, tariffs are not paid by foreign
nations—they’re paid by American importers and, ultimately, passed on to
American consumers.
- When tariffs on
Colombian goods increase, the cost of those goods rises for U.S.
businesses and households.
- Everyday
Americans were going to pay more for Colombian products, from coffee to
textiles, not Colombia.
2. Tariffs Hurt Americans More Than
Colombia
Trump’s policy doesn’t "punish" Colombia; it punishes Americans
by:
- Raising
consumer prices: The increased costs of imported goods directly affect American
families, especially low-income households that spend a higher percentage
of their income on essentials.
- Hurting U.S.
businesses: Companies that rely on Colombian imports will face higher costs,
which could lead to layoffs, reduced profits, or even closures.
3. A Self-Inflicted Wound
If the goal was to pressure Colombia, this strategy made no sense.
Colombia is a major trade partner, and increasing tariffs only undermines the
U.S.’s economic relationship with the country. Meanwhile, Colombia can explore
trade opportunities with other nations, including China and the European Union,
further isolating the U.S.
4. Is This Ignorance or Deliberate
Harm?
Trump’s approach raises serious questions about his understanding of
basic economics:
- Ignorance: Does he truly
believe tariffs are paid by foreign governments? If so, he fundamentally
misunderstands how international trade works.
- Deliberate
harm: Is this an intentional political stunt, knowing full well that
Americans will suffer the consequences but banking on their lack of
understanding to blame someone else?
5. America Deserves Better
This isn’t just about Colombia—it’s about the broader implications of
reckless policies. The U.S. economy thrives on trade and global partnerships.
Policies like this:
- Damage American
credibility: Erratic decisions make it harder for other nations to trust the
U.S. as a reliable trade partner.
- Hurt American
citizens: From farmers to small business owners, the costs of misguided
tariffs ripple across the economy.
A Call for Rational Leadership
Americans deserve leaders who understand basic economics and craft
policies that prioritize the well-being of the nation, not just short-term
political posturing. Instead of punitive tariffs, a more constructive approach
would focus on diplomacy, mutual respect, and solutions that address root
causes—such as improving conditions in Latin America to reduce migration
pressures.
It’s time to ask: Who is really paying the price for these policies?
Because right now, it’s not Colombia—it’s everyday Americans. Tomorrow I expect
Ding Dong, Lady G, and Robin Johnson to go and explain to the Oval Office dude
what tariffs are. Now that Colombia has agreed to receive the immigrants Trump will claim victory, when in fact he made a major blunder.
