U.S. President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariff announcement has drawn sharp criticism from global economists, who warn the policy could fuel inflation, destabilize the U.S. economy, and trigger international unease. The move, which includes 10% tariffs on all imports and higher rates for select countries, has already drawn backlash from trading partners such as South Africa and Venezuela.
Peter Baur, an economics professor at the University of Johannesburg, told China Media Group (CMG) that the tariffs jeopardize South Africa’s steel, aluminum, and automotive exports, threatening job creation and economic growth. He cautioned that U.S. consumers could face rising prices and a weaker dollar, which has already depreciated against the euro.
Meanwhile, the U.S. imposition of 25% “secondary tariffs” on Venezuelan oil and gas imports has escalated tensions. Daniel Paez, a Venezuelan energy analyst, called the policy a “new form of sanctions” designed to instill fear in global markets. The Venezuelan government condemned the measures as economically disruptive and rejected U.S. extraterritorial jurisdiction.
Experts suggest the tariffs may prioritize U.S. corporate interests over global stability. With Mexico and other nations voicing opposition, the policy risks deepening trade fragmentation amid an already fragile economic climate.
