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What are trade tariffs?

What are trade tariffs?

Trade tariffs are taxes imposed by governments on imported or sometimes exported goods. They serve several purposes, such as protecting domestic industries from external competition and generating state revenue. However, they can also lead to disputes in international trade and debates on economic fairness and global justice.

how do they generate state revenue?

Tariffs act as taxes on imported or exported goods, meaning that each time a taxed product crosses a border, the government collects a fee on that transaction. This fee becomes a source of income, supplementing public finances without directly imposing taxes on domestic production or income.

Do these costs get passed on to the consumer?

Yes, the costs of tariffs are often passed on to the consumer. Businesses importing goods generally incorporate the tariff fees into the overall cost of goods, which can lead to higher retail prices.

Will that lead to inflation?

Explain: inflation

Inflation is the overall increase in prices of goods and services in an economy over time, leading to a decrease in the purchasing power of money. When tariffs raise the cost of imported goods, businesses often pass these costs on to consumers. If these higher prices become widespread, they can contribute to overall inflation by increasing the general price level across the economy.