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For the larger part of April, the world has been awash with news about Trump’s tariffs. As someone who has followed Donald Trump closely—not just as a politician but as a businessman—I was particularly interested in the bigger objective behind his actions. His goal was clear: Make America Great Again, especially by ensuring that trade becomes fair and favorable for the United States.
If you take a moment to assess how American goods have historically been taxed globally, one could argue it’s been quite unfair. In many parts of the world, owning an American-made product feels like a luxury—something most people only dream of, hoping a relative from the diaspora might bring back a few items like chocolates or gadgets from the U.S.
Trump’s intention was noble from a protectionist standpoint. He wanted to bring balance and give American industries a fighting chance. However, as I watched events unfold, I knew there would be sacrifices and unintended consequences. Global economics doesn't function in isolation. It’s interconnected, and any major policy shift from one of the world’s leading economies creates ripple effects.
One of the most significant shifts was the emergence of new economic alliances and resistance from major players like China, which refused to bend to Trump's demands. Eventually, Trump began rolling back some of the tariffs or making exemptions—a moment I found particularly interesting.
From a strategic standpoint, this development reminds me of how we sometimes craft rigid business strategies assuming the market will align perfectly with our plans. But in reality, the business world is fluid, and so are politics and international trade. No matter how strong your strategy is, an absolute approach rarely works.
So, what can we learn from Trump’s tariffs strategy?
- Flexibility is Key: Even the most confident strategies must leave room for adjustment. The ability to pivot is crucial.
- Understand the Bigger Ecosystem: Your actions don’t exist in a vacuum. Know how stakeholders—competitors, partners, and even customers—will react.
- Sacrifices Are Part of Growth: Every gain has a cost. Sometimes you must risk short-term losses for long-term benefits.
- Communication Matters: Strategic moves like tariffs are not just economic—they're political and emotional. How they’re communicated to the public and international partners matters.
In conclusion, Trump’s tariff strategy offers a live case study in high-level decision-making and strategic maneuvering. It’s a reminder that while boldness is commendable, adaptability is what sustains success.
About the author
Dr. Jjuuko Derrick, is a pharmacist with a keen business acumen. Having dedicated much of his career to engaging with business owners and employees, he brings a unique blend of pharmaceutical expertise and business insight to the table. As an entrepreneur himself, he is passionately committed to leveraging his technical skills and entrepreneurial experience to foster the growth and development of multiple businesses. Driven by a mission to make a meaningful contribution to the business landscape, he stands ready to empower entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools they need to thrive.
