A zero-sum game describes a relationship, competition, or business deal where one person’s gain is the other person’s loss. The phrase comes from game theory and the notion that if one person wins and the other person loses, this produces a net game of zero.
Zero-sum thinking is when someone assumes they can only win at the expense of another party.
Since President Donald Trump of the United States was inaugurated on January 20, 20925, he has embarked on various changes like the New Sherrif in Town that he is. He has done a lot to bring peace to the Middle East, although his way might not be acceptable to all concerned parties and rights groups. He is currently trying to do the same in the Russo-Ukraine conflict.
However, I’m very concerned about his threats to annexe Canada, Greenland and Panama. He actually stated his intention to make Canada the 51st state of the US. He’s been describing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada as “governor”. I wouldn’t want to believe there’s something more derisive than that.
President Trump then decided to impose tariffs on imports from China, Mexico and Canada purportedly for the extraordinary threats imposed by illegal aliens and drugs, including deadly fentanyl which constitutes a national emergency under the International Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).
I will comment on Canada’s and Canadians’ reaction to the proposed import tariffs. Never have I seen a people so united in their condemnation of a move by another country. All political leaders were united in saying they would deal with the situation on a “dollar-for-dollar basis. The people were also not left behind.
When Trump imposed the tariffs on March 4, Canada retaliated the same day by imposing 25 per cent tariffs on $30 billion worth of US imports with plans to expand to $155 billion after consultation.
Meanwhile, Trump had blinked by pausing tariffs on some Canadian goods until April 2. Canada then decided to hold on to the second round of retaliatory measures until the pause was up.
The move escalated tensions into a full-scale trade war between the two countries. Mr Trudeau noted that no country wins in a trade war.
While tariffs can provide temporary relief to certain sectors, the cost to consumers outweighs the benefit to industries. Also, the industries that seek protection are typically well-organized, politically influential and relentless in lobbying for trade barriers.
according to The Conversation, Canada’s decision to retaliate was less about responding in kind, and more about pressuring America’s most influential export industries.
Ontario province had reacted by imposing a 25 per cent levy on US states using its power. However, a day later it revoked it after an agreement with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Trump then decided not to impose an additional 25 per cent tariff which he had announced earlier.
However, The Conversation said instead of a Tic-Tac-Toe, Canada should collaborate with other nations also eager to challenge US protectionism. Indeed, there have been calls for Canada to join the European Union
Both nations are losing the friendship and trust that should reign between neighbours.
Many workers in the affected industries are losing their jobs and both economies are suffering badly
