Economists wouldn't waste their time discussing whether free trade is good or bad. It is clear for all economic theories that free trade has many benefits and very few drawbacks. The problem is not hidden in convoluted economic policies but in dishonest politics, turning the free-trade concept into pure fiction. Many countries (and China is outstanding among them) take advantage of the free trade offered by other countries while inserting political decisions in detriment of their trade partners. Trade agreements with countries like China imply agreeing to a poker game where the other player knows your cards in advance but do not display its own cards until having a winning set. Not even US allied Japan is free of guilt. Currency manipulation is among the most damaging tricks used to take unfair advantage of free trade. That way, free trade is not so free.
Chinese Currency Manipulation Could Become A Global Problem in 2017
What’s the point of free-trade deals if governments can wipe out the benefits with monetary maneuvers?

by Judy Shelton
New York, Feb.13.─ Passionate defenders of the “global rules-based trading system” should be wary of thinking their views are more informed than President Trump’s. He has been branded a protectionist and thus many conclude he is incapable of exercising world leadership. Meanwhile, those who embrace the virtues of global free trade disregard the fact that the “rules” are not working for many American workers and companies.
Certainly the rules regarding international exchange-rate arrangements are not working.
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Britain and the European Union will result from this action, but the UK break away from its European partners will certainly have a negative economic outlook for both sides. Among other things, it will hamper the free movement of labor. Even if Britain manages to secure a deal where it keeps access to the single market, income per person will still fall. In addition, if the UK is unwilling to accept the free movement of labour, it is likely trade will fall considerably. For the rest of Europe, the most likely negative outcome will be evident when other European countries decide to follow Britain's example and when even others might decide to close their borders to stem the flow of immigration. Theresa May and other british leaders do not seem to be concerned.


