A recent survey conducted by CGTN has put the spotlight on the U.S. "reciprocal tariffs" plan, with global netizens overwhelmingly condemning the move. Over 9,600 respondents from CGTN’s English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian platforms voiced strong opposition, warning that the policy could trigger severe trade repercussions.
More than 81% of participants believe that these tariffs will not solve the U.S. trade deficit and could instead harm American consumers while stunting economic growth. Observers recalled that protectionist measures from the previous term reportedly cost U.S. consumers around $57 billion annually, highlighting the risks of repeating past mistakes.
The survey also revealed that approximately 82.8% of respondents find the insistence on full tariff reciprocity unfeasible given the unequal economic development of nations. Nearly 82.96% criticized the strategy as an "indiscriminate attack" on developing countries, and close to 84.43% warned that such measures would deepen trade unfairness and erode U.S. credibility. Furthermore, about 79.47% argued that these unilateral actions violate World Trade Organization rules, while roughly 79.58% saw them as a dangerous new tool of trade protectionism.
As the global economy becomes ever more interconnected, the survey underscores a growing consensus among international observers: a collaborative and balanced approach to trade is essential to foster sustainable growth and prevent the escalation into a tariff-driven conflict.
Reference(s):
CGTN Poll: U.S. 'reciprocal tariffs' draw condemnation from the world
cgtn.com
