What are tariffs and why do they matter? Are they preferable to other trade restrictions and if so, how? If not, defend your argument. According to the Wall Street Journal, the U.S. ran a global goods deficit of $810 billion in 2017. Theres alotof disagreement out there about the causes and effects but tariffs can unquestionably bring lots of advantages. What might they be in any? Most key U.S. trading partners also impose tariffs. Trump has complained about the 270 per cent duty that Canada imposes on dairy products. Is he just trying to level the playing field or is he doing more harm than good?