Tariffs

Tariffs are taxes on imported goods. In practice, importers often pass along the cost of tariffs to consumers in the form of higher prices. Tariffs can be an important remedy to protect American manufacturers and their workers from the unfair and predatory export practices of other countries and to safeguard the economic and national security of the country. But tariffs are also regressive, affecting low- and middle-income families to a greater extent than wealthier Americans. When applied recklessly, tariffs raise prices for everyday Americans while failing to advance U.S. interests and harming the American manufacturers who rely on imported inputs.

The Center for American Progress recognizes that tariffs can be used strategically and, when imposed, should be coordinated with national investment and other economic policy tools to revitalize the country’s industrial base. Tariffs can also be used to provide preferential market access to the highest-standard exporters, rewarding firms that take strong climate action and support workers’ rights. Tariffs are also part of a broader trade enforcement toolkit, which should be updated to reflect the realities of 21st century trade.