Roger W. Watson

In the complex world of international commerce, tariffs often play a central role in shaping economic policy, influencing global supply chains, and affecting the prices consumers pay for everyday goods. Yet, while much attention is given to discussions about trade barriers and tariffs imposed on imports, there exists a little-known mechanism within the United States that allows businesses to bypass certain duties altogether: Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZs).The regions dispersed throughout the nation offer businesses temporary reprieve from tariffs under particular circumstances, providing adaptability that can greatly influence company activities, expenses, and competitive standing. Despite being mostly unnoticed by typical consumers, FTZs…

In recent years, the subject of tariffs has moved from the pages of economic textbooks to the forefront of public debate, largely driven by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s high-profile approach to international trade. While tariffs have long been a key tool in the economic policies of nations around the world, their use under Trump's administration reignited discussions about their purpose, effectiveness, and long-term impact on global markets and domestic industries.Tariffs, at their core, are taxes placed on imported goods. They are designed to make foreign products more expensive, thereby encouraging consumers and businesses to purchase domestically produced alternatives. Governments…

As discussions around global trade continue to evolve, former U.S. President Donald Trump has made headlines once again with a bold proposal that could reshape international economic relations. Speaking at a recent political event, Trump suggested that if he were to return to office, his administration would consider imposing an additional 10% tariff on goods from countries choosing to align with the expanding Brics alliance—an economic bloc that includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.The suggestion mirrors Trump’s enduring conviction that assertive trade policy can act as an effective instrument to defend U.S. industries and offset the power of…