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As the global economy continues to face tough times, governments are increasingly playing politics with trade and giving in to protectionism. Says who? Well, Chinese officials, as it happens. Earlier this year, China's top promoter of foreign trade, Wan Jifei, said rising protectionism was having a negative impact.

Dairy farmers from around Ottawa took their cows and tractors to Parliament Hill this week, to protest the changes they expect in the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal.

As stocks tumble and populist frustration with the political and financial classes grows, Trump is bringing protectionism back in vogue -- making threats to upend trends toward globalization that are decades in the making through the sheer force of his negotiating talents. I have chosen this article in order to convey how politicians can use tariffs as a means to attract votes. Tariffs play a huge role in determining the import-export balance and using them in favor of domestic producers- even though it may cause the economy harm- may result with gaining advantage in ballots.

Brazil raised tariffs on 100 sectors last October to defend is declining industrial base, with fees of up to 25pc on machinery, iron and steel, plastics, chemicals, paper and wood products. It is now pursuing a full-blown "industrial policy" under its Plano Brasil Maior, with tax concessions for those who build plant locally.

Trade protectionism could hurt global growth and undermine economic reforms in developing countries, the world's top three economic organisations have warned. The warning came in a letter signed by the leaders of the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Trade Organisation (WTO) and sent to leaders of the world's major industrial nations, who were meeting in Paris.