Impacts of Federal Policy Actions on Trade

Publications

Research-based analysis of how federal actions affect trade in the United States

steel sheets in a factory

Opinion | Steel trade and tax policy should be based on evidence, not nostalgia

By Ken Kolb

Kolb explains how the Trump administrations tarrifs on steel won't revive steel jobs as promised and calls for tax credits as a more effective policy solution.

Published in The Post and Courier on May 22nd, 2025

cargo ships

Opinion | US aid cuts are expanding Chinese influence

By Anita R Kellogg

Kellogg argues that U.S. foreign aid cuts are enabling China to expand its global influence through strategic investments that undermine American interests.

Published in The Hill on March 4th, 2025

stacked trade boxes

Opinion | Trump tariffs could end this era of globalization

By Stefano Tijerina

Tijerina warns that Trump’s revived use of tariffs risks isolating the U.S. and harming its economy, which is now deeply dependent on global trade.

Published in the Bangor Daily News on January 25th, 2025

cargo ships

Policy Brief | Why Protectionist Trade Policies Still Won’t Deliver for U.S. Workers

By Erica Owen

Owen explains why protectionist trade policies fall short for U.S. workers and calls for long-term solutions like retraining programs and stronger safety nets.

Published on January 21st, 2025