Since 2017, tariffs imposed by the U.S. under the Trump administration have reshaped global trade dynamics, sparking debates about their long-term economic and geopolitical consequences. Interviews with American business owners highlight growing concerns over escalating costs, strained international relations, and the broader implications of a protracted trade war.
Albert Solis, a U.S.-based automotive parts salesman, told CGTN Stringer that the current approach risks undermining market stability. "It is a trade war, and it\'s not good for anyone," he emphasized, stressing that trust and confidence are critical for functional commerce. "If the market fails, it\'s gonna affect us all."
Viktor Yale, owner of a luxury goods store, echoed these concerns, noting that rising import costs have forced businesses to adapt through price adjustments or reduced profit margins. Both interviewees underscored the interconnectedness of global markets, where retaliatory measures abroad reverberate domestically.
While the tariffs aim to protect U.S. industries, critics argue they complicate supply chains and inflate consumer prices. The ongoing tensions highlight the fragile balance between national economic strategies and international cooperation—a dilemma resonating across Asia and beyond.
