Trump's unexpected trade strategy leaves world markets guessing what's next
Former president builds new-look trade team without experienced advisor Lighthizer. His recent statements about tariffs on allies and BRICS nations show major shift from previous structured approach
Back in 2000 Donald Trump made an interesting prediction in his book: heʼd make himself the nations trade boss. Almost 25 years later‚ this idea doesnt seem so far-fetched
His decision to skip Robert Lighthizer — his first-term trade chief — shows a big change in strategy. The new team includes young faces and mix-matched views: from super-strict traders to old-school money people. Peter Navarro‚ who spent time in jail for not talking to Jan 6 investigators is back; while Jamieson Greer‚ whos only 44‚ gets the top trade job
The first-term trade moves were tough but made sense — like putting fees on Chinaʼs stuff and making deals about steel. Now its different: Trump talks about quick-hit taxes on Mexico and Canada (about 25% on everything)‚ plus weird threats to BRICS countries if they stop using US dollars
His Mexico-Canada plan has some real head-scratchers:
- Making them stop all drug problems
- Blocking every person trying to cross wrong
- Putting fees on everything they sell here
- Doing it right when he starts the job
The whole thing is super-different from before — no long studies‚ no checking with Congress‚ no real trade rules. Its just: do what I say or else. Even Justin Trudeau had to fly down to Mar-a-Lago to talk about it
The new team looks kind of random: theres Howard Lutnick (who never did government stuff before)‚ Scott Bessent (money guy)‚ and some others who dont really match up. Without Lighthizer around to keep things in order‚ everyone better get ready for a wild ride
