The Bretton Woods system is being weakened by its own architect: the impact of Trump on the global economy
The article discusses how President Trump's trade policies are undermining the Bretton Woods system and contributing to a shift in the global economic order.
The article from La Nacion highlights the changes in the global order as a result of President Trump’s trade policies, which include significant tariffs that have been imposed on a global scale. Experts, including U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, indicate that the ‘America First’ policy represents a departure from the traditional Bretton Woods system—a framework established to promote international economic cooperation after World War II. Greer’s comments suggest a shift in perspective where the U.S. no longer views open access to its markets as a given for other nations.
The discussion expands upon the implications of this paradigm shift, questioning the future of existing global economic orders. Notably, the experts express that as the U.S. retreats from its role as a dominant trade hegemon, the foundations of the Bretton Woods system are being challenged. This raises concerns about international cooperation and the potential for economic fragmentation as countries reassess their positions and alignments in response to U.S. policies.
Finally, the article suggests that the changing dynamics could herald the emergence of a new global order that could be less predictable and less cooperative than that established by Bretton Woods. As trade barriers rise and international relations become strained, both the U.S. and other countries may need to navigate a complex landscape of economic diplomacy to bolster their interests and maintain market stability while adapting to these changes.