U.S. trade policy under presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump—a comparative review
Trade strategies of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump present starkly different visions
As the 2024 U.S. presidential election rapidly approaches, U.S. trade policy remains a pivotal issue, with significant implications for the U.S. economy and the country’s position on the global stage. The trade strategies of the two leading candidates, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, present starkly different visions for the future of U.S. economic relations with the world.
Harris, although relatively quiet on issues of global trade, is largely expected to maintain the trade policies of the current administration under President Joseph Biden, emphasizing multilateral cooperation, sustainability, tax incentives for domestic production and labor rights.
In contrast, Trump, known for his “America First” approach during his previous term (2017-2021), continues to advance a more protectionist stance, insulating domestic industries by increasing tariffs on imported goods and seeking renegotiation of trade agreements to favor American interests.
Read a KPMG report that explores the nuances of their respective trade policies, the impact of the candidates’ trade policies on U.S. importers, relations with key partners (in particular, China), and the broader implications for multinational and domestic companies.