U.S. Trade Policy

President Biden is — so far — leaving in place tariffs that his predecessor imposed on China and other trading partners and postponing action on major trade initiatives of his own. His focus is on tackling the COVID-19 pandemic and restoring the country's economic health. But as Biden looks to bolster the economy, reduce dependence on global supply chains and take the lead in international efforts to address climate change, trade policy will play an important role, directly and indirectly. With the public ambivalent about trade and populism driving opinion among some members of both parties, debates on how to shape trade policy are likely to remain contentious. Given the political risks the president faces in a deeply divided country, analysts expect Biden over the next two years to seek support for policies that will help workers and enhance the competitiveness of U.S. industries, betting this will strengthen the U.S. hand in a global marketplace increasingly dominated by China.