The Conversation

Giving in to the fear of Donald Trump's tariffs can inadvertently encourage escalation because it signals that threatening or imposing tariffs is an effective strategy to achieve desired concessions. This can lead to a cycle where each side responds to the other's actions with further measures, increasing tensions and economic disruptions. Essentially, yielding to such pressure may reinforce the belief that aggressive trade tactics are successful, prompting a more assertive or escalatory approach in future negotiations, which can further destabilize international trade relations.