Imposing tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico reveals a misconception about the challenges faced by American manufacturing. While tariffs on Canada and Mexico are on hold, those on China remain, but there are doubts about their effectiveness in revitalizing American manufacturing.

Unfortunately, the reality is that taxing alone cannot restore industrial dominance; the entire ecosystem supporting American manufacturing has been lost along with factories. President Trump’s introduction of tariffs aimed to pressure Canada and Mexico on U.S. concerns over immigration and drug trafficking, as well as to rejuvenate American manufacturing.

Although the desire to revive American manufacturing is commendable, it requires a more comprehensive approach beyond tariffs. Looking back at the significance of manufacturing in America reveals a sharp decline over the years.

Rather than relying solely on tariffs, a more extensive program is essential to rebuild American manufacturing. While tariffs can have a role in boosting certain sectors, a holistic strategy is needed that includes support for small and medium businesses, aid for crucial points of the domestic supply chain, and education and training for innovative and modern manufacturing. This comprehensive effort is necessary to reinvigorate American industrial capacity and support its growth in the 21st century.