President Trump’s rapid and inconsistent implementation of tariffs during his first six weeks in office has created widespread confusion among trading partners and businesses.
His administration has repeatedly announced sweeping tariffs only to reverse course with exemptions and deferrals, particularly regarding Canada, Mexico, and China.
This chaotic approach has occurred while key trade positions remained unfilled, leaving decisions largely to protectionist advisor Peter Navarro. The uncertainty has contributed to stock market declines and eroding consumer confidence, despite White House claims that the strategy reflects Trump’s urgency to address trade inequities.