The next phase of Trump’s trade war
Financial Times 2026-07-24 12:53:56
Context: The trade war initiated by former US President Donald Trump is entering a new phase, shifting its approach from an initial "shakedown" to a more sustained "lock-in" strategy. This development signals a change in the tactics employed by the Trump administration in its trade policies. The new phase is expected to have significant implications for global trade relations.
Key Facts
- The Trump administration's trade war strategy is transitioning from an initial aggressive approach, referred to as a "shakedown", to a more enduring strategy described as a "lock-in", indicating a shift towards a more stable and long-term trade policy stance.
- The new phase of the trade war is characterized by a move away from short-term, shock-and-awe tactics and towards a more sustained and institutionalized approach to trade negotiations and policy implementation.
- The shift from a "shakedown" to a "lock-in" strategy suggests that the Trump administration is seeking to establish a more permanent framework for its trade policies, with a focus on long-term consequences and institutional arrangements.