Protection For The Steel Industry Is As Old As America
The U.S. steel industry has enjoyed protection from foreign competitors since the 1790s. It says new import tariffs are actually just leveling the playing field and shouldn't be labeled "protection."
by John Ydstie
Apr 24, 2018
3 minutes
President Trump's tariffs on imported steel aren't the first time the industry has gotten protection from the U.S. government. Not by a long shot. In fact, tariff protection for the industry — which politicians often say is a vital national interest — goes back to the very beginning of the republic.
In his book, Clashing Over Commerce:, Dartmouth professor Douglas Irwin writes that protection for the metal producers began in the 1790s.
You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.
Start your free 30 days