Trump Strikes a YUGE Deal with Vietnam: Is This Good?

Another Fine Mess I've Gotten Into

Alright folks Saul Goodman here your friendly neighborhood lawyer and occasional economic analyst – because why not? Turns out the ex prez Mr. 'Make America Great Again,' has cooked up a new trade deal with Vietnam. Now usually I’m defending folks getting pinched for a few ounces but this? This is like dealing with Walter White on a global scale. According to the Donald himself this deal involves a 20% tariff on Vietnamese goods entering the U.S. and a whopping 40% if they're just passing through trying to sneak in goods from elsewhere (we're looking at you China!).

Vietnam They're Gonna Pay? Seriously?

Trump says Vietnam will be paying these tariffs. Now that's what we call a 'misunderstanding.' Tariffs my friends are taxes on foreign goods that are paid by *importers* in the United States. So technically it's the American companies coughing up the dough. But hey what's a little detail when you're busy making deals? It's like when I told Jesse Pinkman that using hydrofluoric acid on a body would dissolve it completely. Technically correct but not the whole story right?

Total Access...Sounds Kinda Fishy

The deal also promises the U.S. 'TOTAL ACCESS' to Vietnam's markets zero tariffs! Sounds fantastic like winning the lottery. Except as we all know there's no such thing as a free lunch. Or a free car wash for that matter. I wouldn't be surprised if there are strings attached longer than my client list on a Monday morning.

SUVs in Vietnam? That's the Plan?

Trump's all excited about selling SUVs to Vietnam. Large Engine Vehicles. Well I guess he likes the sound of that acronym; LEV! Now I'm no expert but wouldn't a scooter be more practical in Hanoi traffic? Maybe he thinks they'll use them to haul...uh...groceries? Like Walt sometimes these guys have plans that just sound insane. At least I hope so. I think I have something to do with this.

Unclear Unsigned and Unpredictable...Sounds About Right

Nobody seems to know when this deal takes effect or if it's even official. The White House is mum like they're hiding something. Which they probably are and just like Walter White's meth empire this whole situation screams 'complication'. Critics are saying these tariffs create uncertainty and raise prices. The administration is saying it brings in money and doesn't cause inflation. Someone is lying or is clueless. Now where have I heard that before?

Sweaters Are Gonna Cost You! (And Me Too!)

Some fancy consultants are saying a 10% tariff could raise the price of a men's sweater by 8%. Under Trump's original 46% tariff? 35%! So if you're planning on buying a stylish sweater do it now before this thing goes into effect. Or just wear a cheap suit like me. Either way remember sometimes 'better call Saul' before you end up paying more for a sweater than you did for your last car!