“Tariff Triumph? Trump Quietly Wins His Trade War”

U.S. President Donald Trump appears to be gaining ground in a trade war many predicted he would lose. With a sharp pivot back to tariffs over treaties, Trump’s strategy is pulling in record-breaking revenues while facing minimal global retaliation.

A Shift in Trade Philosophy

Unlike his first term—when tariffs were used as leverage to negotiate trade deals like the USMCA—Trump’s current approach abandons diplomacy in favor of hardline economic pressure. His plan: raise tariffs broadly and unapologetically, regardless of global norms or World Trade Organization (WTO) rules.

The results are staggering. U.S. customs duties surged to $27 billion in June alone, compared to just $7 billion during the same month last year. Annualized, that could push tariff revenues toward $240 billion, marking a historic high. The average tariff rate is now 13.4%, the highest since World War II.

Minimal Pushback from Trade Partners

Despite expectations of a tit-for-tat backlash, key U.S. trading partners have mostly stayed quiet. China and Canada have issued limited retaliatory measures, but Europe, Mexico, and others have chosen to avoid confrontation.

Analysts suggest many nations are reluctant to escalate tensions in a volatile global economy. This diplomatic hesitation has effectively handed Trump a free pass to continue ramping up tariffs.

“We expected retaliation. Instead, the world blinked,” said a senior U.S. trade analyst.

What It Means for Americans

While the numbers favor Trump’s argument, the long-term impact is still under debate. Economists warn that steep tariffs could increase prices for U.S. consumers and businesses, possibly straining growth and hurting competitiveness.

However, with no economic crash in sight and tariff revenues rising sharply, Trump’s base is touting the strategy as a win—even if it comes at a cost to free trade principles.

A Political Weapon

The success of Trump’s trade tactics could shape the 2024 election narrative. By framing tariffs as a tool of strength and self-reliance, the former president is signaling a clear message: America doesn’t need to negotiate when it can dominate economically.

As Trump eyes a return to the White House, his trade war—once seen as reckless—may be repositioned as a victory lap.