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3 times Trump's tariffs worked | CNN Business

The article titled "3 Times Trump's Tariffs Worked" from CNN, published on July 1, 2025, delves into the impact and effectiveness of tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump during his tenure. The piece provides a detailed analysis of three specific instances where these tariffs were deemed successful, offering insights into the economic, political, and social ramifications of these policies. The article is structured to present a balanced view, acknowledging both the positive outcomes and the criticisms associated with these tariffs.

The first instance discussed in the article is the tariff on steel and aluminum imports, which was implemented in March 2018. The article explains that these tariffs were aimed at protecting domestic industries and boosting employment in the steel and aluminum sectors. According to the report, the tariffs led to a significant increase in domestic production, with steel production rising by 5% and aluminum production by 3% within the first year of implementation. The article cites data from the U.S. Department of Commerce, which showed that the tariffs helped to reduce the trade deficit in these sectors by approximately $2 billion annually.

However, the article also acknowledges the criticisms and challenges associated with these tariffs. It notes that the increased costs of steel and aluminum led to higher prices for downstream industries, such as automotive and construction, which in turn affected consumers. The article quotes industry experts who argue that the tariffs resulted in job losses in these downstream sectors, offsetting some of the gains in the steel and aluminum industries. Additionally, the piece discusses the retaliatory tariffs imposed by other countries, particularly the European Union and Canada, which impacted U.S. exports and strained international trade relations.

The second instance highlighted in the article is the tariff on solar panels and washing machines, which was introduced in January 2018. The article explains that these tariffs were intended to protect domestic manufacturers from what was perceived as unfair competition from foreign producers, particularly from China and South Korea. The report states that the tariffs led to a surge in domestic production of solar panels, with U.S. manufacturers increasing their output by 10% in the first year. Similarly, the production of washing machines in the U.S. rose by 8%, helping to revive struggling domestic manufacturers.

The article also delves into the broader economic impact of these tariffs. It notes that while the tariffs helped to boost domestic production, they also led to higher prices for consumers. The piece cites a study from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, which found that the tariffs on solar panels increased the cost of solar installations by approximately 10%, making renewable energy less accessible to consumers. Similarly, the article discusses how the tariffs on washing machines led to higher prices for consumers, with some models seeing price increases of up to 20%.

The third instance discussed in the article is the tariff on Chinese goods, which was part of a broader trade war initiated in 2018. The article explains that these tariffs were aimed at addressing what the Trump administration perceived as unfair trade practices by China, including intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers. The report states that the tariffs led to a significant reduction in the U.S. trade deficit with China, dropping by $70 billion annually. The article cites data from the U.S. Trade Representative, which showed that the tariffs helped to level the playing field for U.S. companies competing with Chinese firms.

However, the article also acknowledges the complexities and challenges associated with these tariffs. It notes that the tariffs led to increased costs for U.S. businesses and consumers, with some estimates suggesting that the average American household paid an additional $1,000 per year due to the tariffs. The piece discusses how the tariffs disrupted global supply chains, leading to shortages and delays in various industries. Additionally, the article highlights the retaliatory tariffs imposed by China, which impacted U.S. agricultural exports and led to significant losses for farmers.

The article also explores the political and social dimensions of these tariffs. It notes that the tariffs were a key part of Trump's "America First" agenda, appealing to voters who supported protectionist policies. The piece discusses how the tariffs were used as a bargaining chip in negotiations with other countries, with Trump often threatening to impose additional tariffs to gain concessions. However, the article also acknowledges the criticisms from both sides of the political spectrum, with some arguing that the tariffs were a blunt instrument that harmed more than they helped.

In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive analysis of three instances where Trump's tariffs were deemed successful, offering insights into the economic, political, and social impacts of these policies. While the tariffs led to increased domestic production and reduced trade deficits in certain sectors, they also resulted in higher costs for consumers and businesses, disrupted global supply chains, and strained international trade relations. The piece presents a balanced view, acknowledging both the positive outcomes and the challenges associated with these tariffs, and provides a nuanced understanding of their overall impact.

Read the Full CNN Article at:
[ https://www.cnn.com/2025/07/01/business/3-times-trumps-tariffs-worked ]