Part 3/10:

The complexity of Trump’s approach can be broken down into at least three, possibly four, interconnected strategies:

1. Threatening Tariffs as a Diplomatic Weapon

One of the core elements of Trump’s tariff strategy involves issuing threats of high tariffs, predominantly as a bargaining tool. The United States, with its immense market, holds significant leverage—threatening tariffs can pressure foreign governments and corporations to comply with U.S. demands on issues beyond trade alone.

Examples include:

• The imposition of 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico to address broader concerns like immigration and national security, rather than trade deficits.

• The tariff on Colombia, which served as a pressure tactic related to diplomatic issues.