Trump's Trade Policy in Context: A Conversation with Doug Irwin

This podcast episode of "The Trade Guys" discusses President Trump's trade policies, particularly the use of tariffs, within the context of American trade history. The hosts interview Professor Douglas Irwin, a prominent trade economist, and Barbara Weisel, a former USTR negotiator, exploring the economic impacts of tariffs, the role of President McKinley in shaping trade policy, and the challenges of international cooperation in addressing global trade imbalances. Professor Irwin highlights the negative economic consequences of broad tariff increases, including higher prices for consumers and regressive impacts on lower-income households. The discussion emphasizes the uncertainty created by unpredictable tariff policies and their disruptive effects on supply chains and investment decisions. The episode concludes by considering the implications for the future of the global trading system and the World Trade Organization.