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trade barriers

Cultural  
  1. Tariffs, import quotas, customs regulations, and other disincentives meant to discourage international trade.


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Trade barriers are usually protectionist; that is, they are erected to protect domestic producers who would not be able to compete successfully with foreign producers in a free market or in free trade.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In January, the Fund raised its growth forecast for the global economy this year, but warned activity could falter if trade barriers rise again and geopolitical conflicts intensify.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 3, 2026

US trade representative Jamieson Greer said the agreement will "breaks down trade barriers" while advancing the interests of the American people.

From BBC • Feb. 19, 2026

Under the deal, Indonesia will cut trade barriers on more than 99% of American imports - including agriculture, healthcare, seafood, technology and car-related goods - the White House said on Thursday.

From BBC • Feb. 19, 2026

In the short run, the EU could respond to Trump’s tariff treat with its own trade barriers, Svendsen said.

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 2026

The United States and Oman had just completed negotiations on a free-trade agreement to eliminate tariffs and trade barriers between the two nations.

From "The World Is Flat" by Thomas L. Friedman