Chaotic tariff policies implemented unilaterally by the Trump administration have drawn sharp criticism from economists, with University of Michigan professor Justin Wolfers calling them counterproductive in reviving American manufacturing. Speaking to MSNBC, the public policy expert emphasized that bypassing Congressional approval for tariffs only raises costs for businesses and consumers without creating sustainable employment opportunities.
"These measures are economic theater," Wolfers stated, highlighting how tariffs disrupt global supply chains while failing to address structural challenges in U.S. industrial sectors. The analysis comes as Asian markets monitor potential ripple effects across technology and manufacturing networks spanning the Chinese mainland, Southeast Asia, and beyond.
Business analysts suggest the uncertainty created by unpredictable trade measures could accelerate diversification of production bases within Asia, particularly in Vietnam, India, and Malaysia. Meanwhile, cross-strait economic ties between the Chinese mainland and Taiwan region remain a focal point for tech industry stability.
