by Robert M. Traxler
President Donald Trump has spoken out loud a fact that has been known for decades (1993), but not spoken. The European Union (EU) was founded to destroy American economic dominance.
One should not blame the Europeans for attacking our economy. They want to take care of their own first. For 32 years it has been a Europe First concept, but interestingly enough President Trump’s America First stance is derided in the legacy media as, you got it, racist, sexist, homophobic, and a number of others. The concept is good for the Europeans, but not Americans.
It all goes back to the liberal, socialist, progressive core beliefs that you and I are evil and must be punished. The almost religious belief that we are the core of all evil in the world is prevalent on the progressive side of the ideological divide.
It is worth noting that the EU’s strategy to counter American economic influence is not a surprise to those who understand global economic dynamics. Many countries prioritize their own interests and strategies to foster growth and stability within their regions. President Trump’s vocal opposition to such practices reflects his commitment to prioritizing American interests above all else. The criticism he faces from various media outlets is a reflection of the deep ideological divide that exists within the political landscape. This divide is fueled by differing views on nationalism, economic policies, and the role of America in the global arena.
Having lived in Asia and Europe, I saw that the demand for American goods was strong, but the extreme number of tariffs and downright ban on American products kept them off the market or increased the cost to such a high degree that only the affluent could afford them.
One item that always amazed me was American white rice in South Korea. We can produce rice that is better and cheaper because of more efficient agriculture and mass production. An average size for a rice farm in South Korea was five acres, while the large farms in Louisiana or Arkansas can go 2,000 to 6,000 acres. Another item that was in high demand was canned Spam, again cost and quality made it a highly black marketable product, as were alcoholic beverages and fresh fruit.
In the 1980s, South Korea imposed a 100% tariff on American automobiles, tobacco products, electronics, distilled spirits and medical items, among others. Today, as we travel around the world, it becomes apparent that American goods are often targets of unfair trade practices. Our friends and allies, like Canada, Great Britain, France, and several others, have established various tariffs and trade barriers that limit the availability and affordability of American products in their markets.
Such protectionist measures hinder the competitiveness of American goods abroad, artificially inflating their prices and reducing their market presence. This is particularly evident in sectors where the United States excels, such as agriculture, technology, and consumer goods. By imposing high tariffs, other nations aim to protect their domestic industries and foster local production at the expense of international competition and the American worker.
These practices create an uneven playing field, challenging American producers and exporters to navigate complex and often restrictive trade regulations. Despite the quality and efficiency of American products, the barriers in place can deter consumers in other countries from accessing these goods, harming working Americans.
Addressing unfair trade practices is crucial for promoting free and fair trade globally. Ensuring that all countries abide by equitable trade standards can help foster economic growth, innovation and collaboration across borders. It is important for international bodies and agreements to work towards reducing tariffs, eliminating trade barriers, and facilitating smoother trade relations.
President Trump wants fair trade, an equal playing field for our products.
As the global economy becomes increasingly interconnected, tackling unfair trade practices will be vital in ensuring that all countries can benefit from the advantages of open markets and fair competition. This will not only benefit American producers and American workers but also contribute to a more balanced and prosperous global trade environment.
“America First” is a concept whose time has come. Our reborn manufacturing economy must have fairness to be successful. My opinion.
