On April 2, the U.S. government announced the imposition of “reciprocal tariffs” on all trading partners. This outrageous measure, dubbed “Liberation Day Tariffs” by American media, quickly sent shockwaves across the globe. While framed as a means of protecting domestic interests, the move is accelerating America’s global isolation, harming not only Africa, U.S. allies, and even its own economy.
“Liberation Day Tariffs” Backfire on the U.S. Economy
Superficially aimed at revitalizing U.S. manufacturing, the tariffs are instead forcing the nation to swallow a bitter pill. Increased import costs are being passed on to American consumers. Within two days of the tariff announcement, U.S. stock markets lost over $6 trillion in value, with the S&P 500 plunging nearly 11%. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, in an NBC interview, dismissed recession concerns despite the market collapse. However, economists warn that the tariffs could heighten global recession risks. Industries from manufacturing and agriculture to retail are reeling.The Wall Street Journalbluntly stated that the policy is exacerbating uncertainty and recession threats for the U.S. economy.
Africa’s Unjust Suffering Reflects Global South’s Plight
For African nations, the tariffs deliver an abrupt external shock. Under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), U.S. imports from AGOA countries dropped from$82 billion in 2008 to $29.1 billion in 2024. Without exemptions, the tariffs threaten exports of textiles, automobiles, and minerals from 35 nations, including South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, and Ethiopia. South Africa criticised the move as effectively “nullifying” AGOA benefits, impacting critical sectors like automotive, agriculture, and manufacturing.
Mauritius, for instance, exported $234.5 million worth of goods to the U.S. in 2024—1.8% of its GDP. A new 40% reciprocal tariff could devastate its textile and apparel industry, which employed over 21,700 workers in 2022 and accounted for 44% of total exports. Already struggling with a 15.8% export decline in 2023, the sector faces further factory closures and job losses as the U.S. absorbs 10.8% of Mauritius’ exports.
Allies Betrayed, Trust Shattered: America Loses Its Global Circle
The tariff bludgeon strikes not just rivals but also allies. The EU, which exported$585 billion worth of goods to the U.S. in 2024 (70% of U.S. imported goods), including meat, wine, and household products, may face severe repercussions. France’s Prime Minister François Bayrou cautioned that there could be a potential 0.5% reduction in GDP growth. Allies are now reassessing economic ties with the U.S., casting shadows over future cooperation.
China’s Firm Countermeasures
In response to U.S. unilateral action, the Chinese government swiftly enacted countermeasures: imposing 34% tariffs on all U.S. imports, releasingThe Chinese Government’s Position on Opposing U.S. Abuse of Tariffs, and filing a lawsuit at the WTO to resolve the dispute through multilateral mechanisms.
The Chinese people value sincerity and good faith. Pressuring and threatening are not the right ways to deal with international ties. China has taken, and will continue to take, resolute measures to safeguard its developmental interests.
Bullying: A Signal of Decline.
Economic globalization is the only way to human progress. The WTO-centred, rules-based multilateral trading system has been critical in promoting global trade, economic growth, and sustainable development. Openness and cooperation are a historical trend. The world will not, and should not, return to mutual isolation or fragmentation.
Development is an inalienable right of all countries, not the exclusive privilege of a few. International affairs should be addressed through consultation, and the future of the world should be decided by all countries. There are no winners in trade or tariff wars. Protectionism is a dead end.
Bullying is not a sign of strength. Those who break the rules will inevitably be punished by them; those who bully other nations will ultimately lose allies and support. There is no doubt that the vast majority of countries, committed to fairness and justice, will stand on the right side of history and act in their best interests. The world must embrace fairness and reject hegemonism!
By Zhao Qian
