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Tariffs, automation and inequality: why US jobs won't return but developing countries will still lose

Viet Nguyen-Tien


Headlines around Trump's sweeping tariffs have focused on trade wars, inflation and the geopolitical fallout. But a more profound shift is taking place, argues Viet Nguyen-Tien. Rather than restoring American jobs, these tariffs may accelerate automation, undermining the export-led industrialisation model that has lifted millions in developing countries out of poverty. Why does this matter, and what must developing countries do in response?


10 June 2025


LSE Inequalities


https://blogs.lse.ac.uk/inequalities/2025/06/10/tariffs-automation-and-inequality/

This Blog is published under the centre's Trade programme, Growth programme.

This publication comes under the following theme: Trade Policy and barriers to international economic integration