A growing number of countries, including American allies, are striking trade deals as the Trump administration erects a higher fence around its global commerce.According to The New York Times, as the Trump administration continues to tighten its grip on global commerce, a growing number of countries, including American allies, are striking their own trade deals. This weekend, as President Trump opened the possibility of a global trade war, other nations are forging economic partnerships without the United States.
In the past two months alone, the European Union has concluded three new trade deals. These include a major agreement with four South American countries, creating one of the world’s largest trade zones with a market of 850 million people. The EU also struck deals with Switzerland and Mexico, and resumed talks with Malaysia after a 13-year hiatus.
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, European Commission president Ursula Von der Leyen boasted about the EU’s trade deals, stating that they have no hidden strings attached and that they play by the rules.
Meanwhile, on Saturday, President Trump ordered tariffs on Mexico and Canada, both partners in a trade bloc that he himself signed during his first term. He also imposed tariffs on China, which has promised to consider “countermeasures.” In recent days, Trump has also threatened to impose tariffs on the European Union, claiming that they have treated the United States unfairly.
However, as the article points out, the United States cannot be ignored due to its strong economy. But other countries are finding ways to avoid dealing with the US, at least in some cases.
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