O neomercantilismo do governo Trump (2017-2021) sob a análise da teoria do "chutar a escada", de Ha-Joon Chang

Abstract

This paper aims to analyze the trade policy of Donald Trump’s administration (2017–2021) through the lens of the “Kicking Away the Ladder” theory, developed by Ha-Joon Chang. Adopting a qualitative approach, the study seeks to understand how practices associated with neomercantilism were revived in contemporary times during Trump’s first term, particularly through the imposition of tariffs, the renegotiation of international agreements, and the withdrawal from multilateral institutions. To this end, the paper examines elements of the political and economic context of the United States during the 2016 presidential election, as well as the historical background of protectionist strategies implemented by previous U.S. governments. Moreover, it analyzes the consequences of these measures, considering that, in a globalized context of increasing economic interdependence, the adoption of unilateral and protectionist policies tends to produce amplified effects. Finally, the study discusses how Trump’s actions reflect a historical and theoretical pattern aimed at protecting national interests, even when such measures contradict the free trade principles promoted by the very same powers within the international system.