President Donald Trump hit a 90-day pause on tariffs for key US trade partners, except China. The unexpected move reversed his hardline stance, triggered a market rally, and eased global trade tensions. Consequently, the conversation related to ‘Tariffs’ among the influencers week-on-week surged by 550%, in the second week of April, reveals the Social Media Analytics Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
Smitarani Tripathy, Social Media Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Influencers opinions are sharply divided over Trump’s 90-day tariff pause. While some express optimism, calling it a bold negotiation tactic that sparked historic market gains, others react with skepticism, labeling it a chaotic retreat from self-inflicted volatility. Many fear the pause offers momentary relief but fails to resolve long-term risks, leaving economic strategy uncertain and trade credibility hanging in the balance.”
Below are the key topic of discussions among top Influencers captured by GlobalData’s Social Media Analytics Platform:
Strategic negotiation vs. economic retreat: Influencers are split on the 90-day tariff pause, some see it as a strategic masterstroke to compel trade negotiations, praising Trump’s deal-making leverage, while others view it as a frantic retreat from self-inflicted market turmoil. Critics argue it exposes poor planning, contrasting with supporters who frame it as a bold move to pressure nations, revealing deep divisions over the intent and success of his trade approach.
China as the central target: With tariffs on China escalating to 125% while on others pausing, influencers debate if this isolates Beijing or escalates a dangerous trade war. They highlight risks like Chinese retaliation via Taiwan or rare earth minerals, contrasting with views of it as a focused pressure tactic.
Uncertainty and long-term economic impact: The 90-day pause breeds uncertainty about future tariffs and trade outcomes, with influencers warning of persistent risks like supply chain chaos, inflation, and recession. Even with reduced rates, long-term damage looms, they argue, as businesses hesitate to invest, and consumers face higher costs. This topic reflects broader fears that the pause merely delays, rather than resolves, deep economic challenges ahead.
Geopolitical realignment and trade deals: The pause opens a window for trade talks with allies like Japan or the EU, and influencers speculate on potential deals versus risks of retaliation splitting global trade. They ponder if it is a chance to realign partnerships or a step toward chaos, emphasizing the geopolitical tightrope Trump walks in 90 days to secure wins without fracturing international economic ties.
Tripathy concludes: “While the market rejoices in short-term relief, influencers remain wary, seeing this not as a resolution, but a recalibration of risk. The coming weeks will test whether this pause yields meaningful progress or merely postpones the next chapter of global trade turbulence.”
