Economists Criticize U.S. Tariff Policies, Urge Return to Free Trade Principles

According to PANews, a group of prominent economists, including two Nobel laureates, have issued a statement opposing the extensive unilateral tariff measures implemented by U.S. President Donald Trump since he took office in 2025. The statement criticizes these policies as a repetition of the protectionist errors of the 1930 Smoot-Hawley Act, arguing that they distort markets, harm consumer interests, and violate principles of free trade and constitutional governance. The economists call for a return to the founding values of 'peace, commerce, and honest friendship.' The 'Anti-Tariff Declaration' has garnered support from over 1,368 individuals from academic and policy circles.