Protectionist stance to ‘make US fall again’ – World

The increasing protectionist stance of the United States government, driven by a desire to “Make America Great Again” (MAGA), has sparked significant concern globally, particularly among experts in Japan. As the U.S. sprints toward nationalism, many analysts fear that this trajectory could lead to a decline in its economic influence and undermine the long-standing global trends toward multilateralism and free trade.

### The Shift Toward Nationalism

Kumiko Haba, a professor emeritus of international relations at Aoyama Gakuin University, succinctly summarizes the situation. She suggests that while the U.S. has implemented high tariffs as part of its MAGA campaign, these measures have inadvertently set the stage for economic decline rather than the revival they intended. “It looks like ‘Make America Fall Again’,” she states poignantly. Haba argues that with the ongoing erosion of U.S. economic power, Asia is poised to lead the charge in shaping a new global economy focused on collaboration and development.

This shift has raised alarms for many in the international community. The protectionist policies of the U.S. have been likened to an economic weapon, affecting both allies and adversaries alike. Kazuyuki Hamada, an international political economist, argues that these one-sided policies are fundamentally incompatible with the principles of free trade and multilateralism. He warns that using tariffs to exert political pressure threatens the delicate balance that underpins global economic relations.

### The Declining Influence of the U.S.

According to Haba, the long-term prospects point to a very different international order emerging from the ashes of American protectionism. “From a long-term perspective, I believe that multilateralism and free trade in Asia will drive the world economy,” she predicts. This anticipated change is not solely attributed to U.S. decline; emerging economies in the Global South are also expected to take on greater roles, fostering a new focus on economic development and peace rather than conflict.

Hamada echoes these sentiments by emphasizing the potential for countries like Japan, China, South Korea, and those in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to collaborate more closely. The goal would be to establish a prosperous new world order driven by economic cooperation rather than isolationist policies.

### Navigating Tariff Policies

In the midst of these mounting tensions, Japan’s chief tariff negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, has been vocal in urging the U.S. to reconsider its tariffs. This ongoing dialogue, sparked by the temporary 90-day pause on tariff impositions, has been seen as an opportunity for countries outside the U.S. to band together against Washington’s trade strategies. “This pause is a political compromise by the U.S., but no one knows how the U.S. would change this tariff war after 90 days,” Hamada notes, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding current policies.

During negotiations in Washington, Akazawa reiterated Japan’s stance that all additional tariffs on Japanese imports should be removed. The coordination between the U.S. and Japan aims to foster greater understanding of each nation’s concerns while also addressing the notable friction caused by the protectionist policies.

### A Call for Collaboration

In such troubled waters, experts like Haba and Hamada advocate for a concerted effort by Asian nations to create a resilient trading environment. Haba especially highlights the importance of strengthening trade ties and supply chains among Asian countries, urging a calm and measured response to shifting U.S. tariff policies.

As the U.S. grapples with its internal challenges, other nations are encouraged to focus on unity. “We must be convinced that the future is in the hands of the developing nations, represented by ASEAN, the Global South, and BRICS,” says Hamada, underscoring the necessity for genuine multilateralism that can withstand the tides of protectionism emanating from Washington.

### Looking to the Future

The implications of America’s current trajectory extend far beyond its national borders. As the U.S. leans more heavily on protectionist measures, it risks alienating not just developing nations, but also its traditional allies. International markets thrive on stability and predictability, qualities that might be compromised if protectionist policies continue to reign.

While some advocate for the MAGA strategy—hoping it will restore U.S. economic dominance—experts caution that it may instead lead to a prolonged period of decline, marked by isolation and economic contraction. The shift in global economic power toward Asia and the Global South may become a defining feature of the 21st century.

### Conclusion

In conclusion, the American protectionist stance represents a critical juncture in international trade relations. Experts are increasingly convinced that, rather than revitalizing U.S. economic power, the current policies could lead to a significant decline akin to “Make America Fall Again.” As Japan and other nations reinforce their commitment to multilateralism and collaboration, the world may witness a new era where economic cooperation takes precedence over isolationist pacts, ultimately paving the way for a more balanced global economy. It remains to be seen how Washington will adapt in response to these emerging dynamics, but the call for cooperation and understanding has never been more pressing.

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