Trump’s 2025 Tariffs Through the Lens of the I Ching: A Clash of Trade and Destiny

On April 2, 2025, former President Donald Trump unveiled an aggressive new wave of tariffs targeting a broad array of global trade partners. While economists and world leaders debate the political and economic implications, there is another lens through which we can view these moves — the ancient Chinese wisdom of the I Ching (易经), or Book of Changes.

The I Ching, a philosophical system rooted in Taoist cosmology, offers guidance through 64 hexagrams that describe the dynamics of change. When applied to current events, it can illuminate the underlying energy patterns and symbolic meaning behind worldly affairs — including something as modern as international trade policy.

Hexagram 21 – 噬嗑 (Shì Kè): “Biting Through”

This hexagram reflects decisive action, like teeth cutting through tough meat. It represents enforcement, justice, and the need to remove obstacles through strong measures. Trump’s tariffs clearly embody this energy — an attempt to cut through what he views as unfair trade practices, intellectual property theft, and economic dependency.

But “biting through” comes with caution. One must distinguish between what is just and what is reactionary. If force is applied without clarity or integrity, it may provoke unintended resistance.

Hexagram 6 – 讼 (Sòng): “Conflict”

The global response to the tariffs — from Europe to Asia — signals the emergence of serious trade tensions. This hexagram is about disputes and unresolved grievances, where two forces clash without room for compromise.

It reminds us that conflict, while sometimes necessary, is costly. If handled without wisdom and humility, it can spiral into long-term animosity and economic entrenchment.

Hexagram 12 – 否 (Pǐ): “Stagnation”

Where there is too much conflict, stagnation follows. Hexagram 12 speaks of blocked energy — where Heaven and Earth fail to interact. In economic terms, this mirrors the risk of disrupted supply chains, trade paralysis, and rising costs for businesses and consumers alike.

Rather than fostering prosperity, isolation and obstruction dominate the scene.

Hexagram 49 – 革 (Gé): “Revolution”

However, within this cycle of enforcement, conflict, and stagnation, there lies the potential for transformation. Hexagram 49 marks a turning point — a radical shift or necessary reform that redefines the system.

Trump’s tariffs may be the spark for a rethinking of globalization itself, triggering new alliances, localized production, or alternate economic models. But the I Ching warns: true revolution must be timely and morally sound, or chaos will follow.

Conclusion: Change is Inevitable — Direction is Choice

The I Ching does not predict outcomes; it reflects processes. Trump’s 2025 tariffs are not merely political maneuvers — they are part of a deeper current of global change. Whether they lead to renewal or rupture depends on the wisdom and timing of those who act.

2025 Trump Tariffs – Categorized by Region

North America

• Canada – Exempted

• Mexico – Exempted

Europe

• European Union – 20%

• United Kingdom – 10%

• Switzerland – 31%

East Asia

• China – 34%

• Taiwan – 32%

• Japan – 24%

• South Korea – 25%

Southeast Asia

• Vietnam – 46%

• Thailand – 36%

• Cambodia – 49%

• Indonesia – 32%

• Myanmar – 44%

South Asia

• India – 26%

• Bangladesh – 37%

• Sri Lanka – 44%

• Pakistan – 29%

Africa

• South Africa – 30%

Universal Tariff

• All foreign imports – Additional 10% baseline tariff