China Quote by Roberto Azevedo
“One thinks that one is winning when we slap tariffs or introduce barriers to imports from another country, and we think we win. But you lose when you export because the other countries are going to raise tariffs as well. They're going to introduce barriers as well. So you win with one hand and you lose with the other.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: WTO Ministerial Conference, 2013
Trade protectionism feels like a win but provokes retaliation, hurting exports and overall welfare.
In simple terms: Tariffs seem beneficial but cause loss.
Key Takeaway
Avoid protectionism; seek open markets.
Themes
trade
economics
policy
reciprocity
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
policy
economic
When to use this quote
- government negotiations
- business strategy
- export planning
- policy advocacy
Key Concepts
comparative advantage
retaliation
globalization
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance domestic industry protection with export competitiveness?
- What alternatives exist to tariffs for supporting local producers?
A Different Perspective
Tariffs may protect specific sectors but raise consumer costs and provoke trade wars.
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