The recent implementation of Section 122 tariffs has caused quite a stir in the business world. These tariffs, imposed by the government on imported goods, have been met with strong opposition from various industries and trade organizations. And with good reason – these tariffs are not only harmful to the economy, but they are also illegal. In this article, we will explore why the new Section 122 tariffs should be struck down by the courts when (as is likely) lawsuits are filed against them.
First and foremost, the new tariffs violate the basic principles of international trade. The World Trade Organization (WTO) has established rules and regulations to ensure fair and free trade among its member countries. The imposition of tariffs is seen as a form of protectionism, which goes against the principles of free trade. By imposing these tariffs, the government is essentially limiting the access of foreign goods into the country, which in turn, disrupts the balance of trade and hinders economic growth.
Moreover, the new tariffs also go against the agreements made by the United States in various trade agreements. For instance, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) both prohibit the imposition of tariffs without valid reason or justification. The Section 122 tariffs, on the other hand, have been imposed without any valid reason, making them a clear violation of these trade agreements.
Furthermore, the implementation of these tariffs has been done without proper legal procedures. The United States International Trade Commission (USITC) is the governing body responsible for conducting investigations and making recommendations on trade matters. However, in the case of the Section 122 tariffs, the USITC was not consulted or involved in the decision-making process. This not only undermines the authority of the USITC but also goes against the established legal procedures.
In addition, the new tariffs are also discriminatory in nature. While they apply to all countries, they disproportionately affect certain industries and countries. For example, the steel and aluminum industries in Canada and Mexico, two of the United States’ biggest trading partners, have been hit hard by these tariffs. This discrimination is not only unfair but also goes against the principles of equal treatment among trading partners.
Moreover, the implementation of these tariffs has caused chaos and uncertainty in the market. Businesses that rely on imported goods have been left in a state of limbo, not knowing how much they will have to pay for their goods or if they will have to find alternative suppliers. This has a direct impact on the economy, as businesses are forced to cut jobs or increase prices to compensate for the additional cost of the tariffs.
It is also worth noting that the new tariffs have not been approved by Congress. The Constitution gives Congress the power to regulate trade and impose tariffs. However, the Section 122 tariffs have been imposed unilaterally by the executive branch, without any approval from Congress. This is a clear overreach of power and goes against the principles of checks and balances in our government.
In conclusion, the new Section 122 tariffs are not only harmful to the economy but also illegal. They go against the principles of free trade, violate international agreements, discriminate against certain industries and countries, and have been imposed without proper legal procedures or approval from Congress. It is crucial that the courts strike down these tariffs when (as is likely) lawsuits are filed against them. As a nation built on the foundations of free trade and fair competition, it is our duty to uphold these principles and reject any actions that go against them. Let us hope that the courts will make the right decision and protect our economy and our values.