Amid ongoing trade tensions, a recent survey conducted by CGTN has revealed global apprehension regarding U.S. tariff policies and their impact on market confidence. The poll, which garnered responses from 7,875 netizens across CGTN’s English, Spanish, French, Arabic, and Russian platforms within 24 hours, indicates deep skepticism about the direction of U.S. trade strategies and fears of negative repercussions for the global economy.
In recent months, significant fluctuations in the U.S. stock market have been observed, with $4 trillion in market value evaporating in less than a month. Investors worldwide are expressing concern over the potential for escalating tariffs to trigger a sell-off in tech stocks and volatility not seen in years. One netizen commented, “Taxing all products from foreign countries has never been a good idea,” reflecting the widespread unease.
The survey revealed that a substantial majority of respondents believe these tariff policies are unsettling investors. Many participants feel that the sharp declines in U.S. stocks reflect a severe lack of confidence among market investors in the U.S. economy. There is growing concern that a market crash could spill over into global markets, undermining worldwide confidence.
Economic forecasts have been adjusted in light of these developments. Financial institutions have revised growth projections, citing uncertainty brought about by trade policies. Recently, a major financial group revised its U.S. GDP growth forecast for 2025 from 2.4% to 1.7%, marking the first downgrade in over two years. This has heightened fears among 85.6% of survey participants that “America First” economic policies might negatively impact the sluggish recovery of the world economy.
Furthermore, 76.2% of respondents believe the U.S. stock market turmoil may signal the onset of a recession in the U.S. economy. Additionally, 70.6% feel that current policies could disrupt the global economic order and hinder the United States’ own economic development.
The overwhelming concern reflected in the survey underscores the global implications of U.S. trade policies. As tariff measures continue to evolve, the international community watches closely, hopeful for strategies that promote stability and mutual economic growth rather than uncertainty and division.
