Is President Obama a protectionist or pro-free trade? Both, according to a recent Los Angeles Times editorial. President Obama has been quoted as saying more jobs are created and costs are lowered in a free trade economy. But, the recent Stimulus plan angered many with the 'Buy American' clause attached to the plan.
Recent news about the large tariff placed on China for its tire imports, and refusing to allow Mexican truck drivers into the U.S. has also raised eyebrows to protectionism. But trade issues is not a new problem and not just in the United States.
Earlier this month, the WTO listed 91 potentially protectionist measures taken by G-20 members between the April summit in London and the end of August, and Global Trade Alert, a trade watchdog group affiliated with the World Bank, puts the number at 121 since November.
The position on protectionism or opening free trade even more will be answered in a matter of time. The G-20 summit began last week and will discuss these issues. President Obama will have the opportunity to make his stance on protectionism or pro-free trade more clear.
To read the full editorial, click here.
