COMMENT. In response to US protectionism, refraining from countermeasures would be the most economically sensible strategy.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly caused international irritation with his ‘Tollonomics’. Despite a broad consensus among economists on the benefits of free trade, he demonstratively presented a list of so-called ‘reciprocal’ tariffs on 2 April 2025 - in some cases up to 50 percent, even on exports from tiny Lesotho. Although the worst theatrical thunder has so far failed to materialize because the actual tariffs are lower than the threatened rates, the general tariff level is higher than before 2 April. Some negotiations are still pending. The EU in particular, the USA's most important trading partner, is struggling to find a common response. Whilst France and Spain are in favor of retaliatory measures, Germany is focusing on agreement. In economic terms, refraining from countermeasures would be the most sensible strategy.
This comment is available in German only.
Legal notice
The information contained and opinions expressed in this document reflect the views of the author at the time of publication and are subject to change without prior notice. Forward-looking statements reflect the judgement and future expectations of the author. The opinions and expectations found in this document may differ from estimations found in other documents of Flossbach von Storch SE. The above information is provided for informational purposes only and without any obligation, whether contractual or otherwise. This document does not constitute an offer to sell, purchase or subscribe to securities or other assets. The information and estimates contained herein do not constitute investment advice or any other form of recommendation. All information has been compiled with care. However, no guarantee is given as to the accuracy and completeness of information and no liability is accepted. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. All authorial rights and other rights, titles and claims (including copyrights, brands, patents, intellectual property rights and other rights) to, for and from all the information in this publication are subject, without restriction, to the applicable provisions and property rights of the registered owners. You do not acquire any rights to the contents. Copyright for contents created and published by Flossbach von Storch SE remains solely with Flossbach von Storch SE. Such content may not be reproduced or used in full or in part without the written approval of Flossbach von Storch SE.
Reprinting or making the content publicly available – in particular by including it in third-party websites – together with reproduction on data storage devices of any kind requires the prior written consent of Flossbach von Storch SE.
© 2024 Flossbach von Storch. All rights reserved.