Yes
Policy influence
When tariffs lack clear economic justification and disproportionately target specific countries, they can reasonably be interpreted as acts of political hostility. This tactic allows for political signalling or retaliation in the guise of economic policy, as seen in various global trade disputes wherein tariffs have been strategically employed to influence foreign decision-making.
Arpan Patra
Class X, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Kapasaria, East Midnapore
Big bully
Trade tariffs can indeed function as a form of political attack. By imposing steep or selectively targeted tariffs, a country can disrupt the economic stability of a rival, effectively using trade as a tool of coercion without resorting to open conflict.
Sahadat Alam
First year, Jangipur College, Murshidabad
Power play
Despite US President Donald Trump’s attempts to justify his trade tariffs, they stand as a symbol of dominance and coercion — echoing a history of US browbeating.
Aryama Ghosh
Third year, Indian Statistical Institute, Calcutta
Anti-people
The recently increased US tariffs are clearly a political attack. Political leaders are doing this without a thought for the welfare of the common people.
Adrija Maji
Class VIII, Tarakeswar Girls’ High School, Hooghly
Short-term gain
Use of tariffs as a political weapon is often counterproductive. They can trigger retaliatory measures, leading to trade wars that damage the economies of all countries. Tariffs raise prices for consumers, disrupt supply chains and can alienate key allies. Using tariffs as a political attack equals prioritising short-term political gains over long-term stability.
Saumili Mukherjji
First year, English, Loreto College, Calcutta
No
Protectionist measure
Steep tariffs are an economic measure. When a steep tariff is imposed on the import of a commodity, it implies the commodity’s demand will decrease. This will reduce the revenue of the exporting country and could impact the GDP. But such measures protect the importing country and potentially generate revenue for it.
Moubani Paul
Third year, BCom, Bijoy Krishna Girls College, Howrah