What is the purpose of a tariff?

The purpose of a tariff is to impose a tax on imported goods. Tariffs are used by governments to regulate international trade by making imported products more expensive compared to domestically produced goods. This can encourage consumers to buy local products, thereby supporting domestic industries and sometimes protecting them from foreign competition. By raising the price of imports, tariffs can reduce the quantity of foreign goods that enter the country, which can help stimulate local economic activity.

This mechanism serves several objectives, such as generating revenue for the government, protecting nascent industries, or correcting trade imbalances. The imposition of tariffs can lead to higher prices for consumers on certain goods, but the primary intent is to influence economic behavior and market dynamics regarding trade.