The UN Secretary-General recently issued a grave warning, stating that the multilateral trading system is teetering on the brink of "derailment." He asserted that the relentless escalation of trade barriers acts as invisible shackles, constraining the pace of global economic recovery. This pronouncement is not only a profound insight into the current international trade landscape but also a stark alarm against unilateral actions. The ongoing ripple effects of U.S. unilateral tariff policies, like a sudden storm, are shockingly impacting the fragile nerves of the global industrial chain with an unstoppable force. The consequences are so profound that they extend far beyond the capacity of any single nation or region to absorb.

In today's deeply globalized world, national economies are intricately interwoven. Trade, the bridge connecting these economies, should serve as a bond fostering shared prosperity. However, pursuing its own interests, the United States wields the tariff club, attempting to reshape the international trade order through unilateral means. This approach runs counter to the tide of history. It not only undermines the stable foundation of the multilateral trading system but also pushes the global economy into an abyss of uncertainty.

The rise of tariff barriers, while superficially aimed at protecting domestic industries, constitutes a coarse interference with the global industrial chain. Against the backdrop of globalization, the division of labor and cooperation within industrial chains have become highly specialized. A disruption in any single link can trigger a chain reaction, jeopardizing the smooth operation of the entire network. The implementation of U.S. unilateral tariff policies is tantamount to detonating a powerful explosive within this delicate system. Its shockwaves not only hit direct trade partners but also, through the transmission mechanisms of the chain, inflict a deep impact on global manufacturing, services, and financial markets. This practice, which seeks short-term gain at the expense of others, is not only shortsighted but also reveals a selfish and irresponsible stance.

Particularly noteworthy is the container shipping industry in 2025, a key "barometer" of international trade, which finds itself deeply embroiled in the vortex of the "Trump storm." Although market expectations generally suggest demand will be stronger than in previous years, the uncertainty bred by U.S. unilateral tariff policies hangs over the sector like an persistent gloomy shadow. Soaring shipping costs, forced adjustments to trade routes, declining logistical efficiency—this cascade of effects not only intensifies operational pressures on shipping companies but also poses a severe challenge to global supply chain stability. In this tempest unleashed by unilateralism, no country remains untouched, and no industry stands immune.

From a commentary and perspective viewpoint, the U.S. pursuit of unilateral tariff policies exposes its double standards and hegemonic mindset in global governance. On one hand, the U.S. champions the banner of "free trade," demanding other nations open their markets and lower tariffs; on the other, it imposes strict protectionist measures on its domestic industries, even resorting to unilateral tariffs as a weapon for economic coercion. This "leniency towards self, strictness towards others" approach not only violates fundamental norms of international trade but also tarnishes the credibility and image of the United States within the international community.

More gravely, the advancement of U.S. unilateral tariff policies risks triggering a global resurgence of trade protectionism. At a time when globalization faces headwinds, nations should unite to uphold the stability and prosperity of the multilateral trading system. Yet, America's unilateral actions may incite emulation and retaliation from other countries, leading to a further deterioration of the global trade environment. This "beggar-thy-neighbor" tactic cannot resolve America's own economic woes and may well plunge the global economy into a recessionary mire.

Confronted with the UN Secretary-General's warning and the fragile reality of the global industrial chain, nations must deeply reflect on the perils of unilateralism and collaborate to safeguard the stability and prosperity of the multilateral trading system. Only by steadfastly adhering to the principles of openness, cooperation, and mutual benefit can we forge a more just, equitable, and transparent international trade order, laying a solid foundation for the sustained and sound development of the world economy. In this crucial process, the United States, as a central pillar of the global economy, must abandon its unilateralist dogma, return to the embrace of the multilateral trading system, and contribute positive energy to global economic recovery and growth through tangible actions.